HomeMy Public PortalAboutPlanning Board Packet 11/10/21 (2021 OSRP only)Town of Brewster
Open Space & Recreation Plan
September 15, 2021
DRAFT
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan
September 15, 2021
Prepared by:
Town of Brewster
Horsley Witten Group, Inc.
Cape Cod Commission
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The development of the 2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan was funded by the Brewster Community
Preservation Committee.
The Town of Brewster would also like to acknowledge the following as primary authors and guiding the Open Space
and Recreation Plan update process:
Elizabeth Taylor, Chair of the Brewster Open Space Committee and Planning Board member
Christopher Miller, Director, Natural Resources Department
Michael Gradone, Director, Recreation Department
Hal Minis, Chair, Brewster Vision Advisory Group
Assistance from Horsley Witten Group, Inc. and Cape Cod Commission
With contributions from:
Peter Lombardi, Town Manager
Susan Broderick, Assistant Town Manager
Donna Kalanick, Assistant Town Manager
Collette Williams, Town Clerk
Jim Gallagher, Town Assessor
Ryan Bennett, Town Planner
Jill Scalise, Affordable Housing Coordinator
Patrick Ellis, Department of Public Works
Paul Anderson, Water Department
Select Board
Cynthia Bingham
Mary Chaffee
Ned Chatelain
Benjamin deRuyter
David Whitney
Conservation Commission
Bruce Evans
Gary Kaser
Nicole Smith
Michael Tobin
Peter Wells
Planning Board
Roberta Barrett
Charlotte Degen
Madalyn Hillis-Dineen
Kari Hoffmann
Elizabeth Taylor
Paul Wallace
Open Space Committee
Phil Burt
Gary Christen
Bruce Evans
Peter Herrmann
Don Keeran
Tom Kowalski
Peter Norton
Andrew Perkins
Elizabeth Taylor
Bikeways Committee
George Bausch
Eric Levy
Hal Minis
Susan Riseman
Joseph Sullivan, III
Gregory Wright
Historical Commission
George Boyd
Patricia Busch
Faythe Ellis
Jeffrey Hayes
Patricia Hess
Recreation Commission
Roland Bassett Jr
Sherrie McCullough
Brandon Rice
Allen Ryone
Thomas Wingard
Agricultural Commission
Stephan Brown
Peter Herrmann
Anthony Holguin
Rebecca Howes
David Miller
Robert Richardson
Jane Weber
All Citizens Access Committee
Joan Carstanjen
Mary Haynes
Laurel Labdon
Carol Ridley, Coordinator, Pleasant Bay Alliance
A special thank you to the residents of Brewster who provided their input and comments during the update process.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1. PLAN SUMMARY ................................................................................................................ 1
SECTION 2. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 3
A. Statement of Purpose........................................................................................................................ 3
B. Planning Process and Public Participation ......................................................................................... 4
C. Enhanced Outreach and Public Participation for Environmental Justice Populations ....................... 9
SECTION 3. COMMUNITY SETTING ..................................................................................................... 10
A. Regional Context ............................................................................................................................. 10
B. History of the Community ............................................................................................................... 13
C. Population Characteristics ............................................................................................................... 17
D. Development Patterns and Trends .................................................................................................. 23
SECTION 4. ENVIRONMENTAL INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS ................................................................ 32
A. Geology, Soils, and Topography ...................................................................................................... 32
B. Water Resources ............................................................................................................................. 38
C. Vegetation ....................................................................................................................................... 52
D. Fisheries and Wildlife ...................................................................................................................... 61
E. Scenic Resources and Unique Environments ................................................................................... 68
F. Environmental Challenges ............................................................................................................... 77
SECTION 5. INVENTORY OF LANDS OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION INTEREST ....................... 87
A. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 87
B. Private Parcels ................................................................................................................................. 89
C. Public and Nonprofit Parcels ........................................................................................................... 93
SECTION 6. COMMUNITY VISION ..................................................................................................... 104
A. Description of Process ................................................................................................................... 104
B. Previous Planning Initiatives .......................................................................................................... 104
C. Statement of Open Space and Recreation Goals ........................................................................... 109
SECTION 7. ANALYSIS OF NEEDS ...................................................................................................... 110
A. Summary of Resource Protection Needs ....................................................................................... 110
B. Summary of Community Needs ..................................................................................................... 113
C. Management Needs, Potential Change of Use .............................................................................. 117
D. Regional and State-Identified Needs ............................................................................................. 120
SECTION 8. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................ 124
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 ii
SECTION 9. 7-YEAR ACTION PLAN .................................................................................................... 126
SECTION 10. PUBLIC COMMENTS ...................................................................................................... 140
A. Public Input ................................................................................................................................... 140
B. Letters of Support ......................................................................................................................... 140
SECTION 11. REFERENCES .................................................................................................................. 141
LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1. Brewster’s Shared/Abutting Resources ...................................................................................... 12
Table 3.2. Cape Cod Population Growth Rate, 1920-2019 .......................................................................... 17
Table 3.3. Brewster Population Growth Rate, 1920-2020 ........................................................................... 18
Table 3.4. Brewster Age Profile ................................................................................................................... 20
Table 3.5. An Overview of Brewster, MA ..................................................................................................... 21
Table 3.6. Median Household Income and Poverty Status for Town of Brewster, 2010 and 2018 ............. 21
Table 3.7. Income and Employment for Town of Brewster ......................................................................... 22
Table 3.8. Brewster Zoning Districts and Bylaws ......................................................................................... 28
Table 3.9. Summary of Brewster Buildout Analysis ..................................................................................... 31
Table 4.1. Brewster’s Impaired Freshwater Ponds ...................................................................................... 44
Table 4.2. Brewster's Impaired Marine Surface Waters .............................................................................. 46
Table 4.3. Brewster’s MESA-listed Plant Species in Brewster as of 6-2020 ................................................. 60
Table 4.4. US Fish & Wildlife Endangered & Threatened Plant Species in Massachusetts, 2020 ................ 60
Table 4.5. Brewster’s MESA-Listed Wildlife Species as of 6-2020 ............................................................... 67
Table 4.6. US Fish & Wildlife Endangered & Threatened Species in Massachusetts, 2020 ......................... 67
Table 5.1. Significant Privately Owned Parcels as of 6-2020 ....................................................................... 89
LIST OF MAPS
Map 1. Regional Context ............................................................................................................................. 11
Map 2. Population Density .......................................................................................................................... 19
Map 3. Environmental Justice Populations.................................................................................................. 24
Map 4. Brewster’s Zoning and Overlay Districts .......................................................................................... 29
Map 5. Surficial Geology .............................................................................................................................. 33
Map 6. Hydric Soils ...................................................................................................................................... 36
Map 7. Water Resources ............................................................................................................................. 39
Map 8. Areas Prone to Flooding .................................................................................................................. 48
Map 9. Wetland Resources ......................................................................................................................... 50
Map 10. Priority Habitat .............................................................................................................................. 59
Map 11. Scenic Resources and Unique Environments ................................................................................ 69
Map 12. Brewster Protected Open Space and Recreation Resources ......................................................... 94
Map 13. Action Plan .................................................................................................................................. 127
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 iii
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A: Town Open Space Accomplishments Timeline
Appendix B: Summary of Community Survey (April/May 2020 and June 2021)
Appendix C: Brewster Archaeological Sensitivity Map
Appendix D: Brewster Open Space and Recreational Resources Inventory
Appendix E: Lands owned by the Brewster Conservation Trust
Appendix F: ADA Self Evaluation
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 1
SECTION 1. PLAN SUMMARY
Sunset by the Jetty. Photo credit: Bill Damon
The 2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan reflects the overall aspirations of this community as
expressed by its residents in surveys, public hearings, and town meetings from 1970 through 2021.
Residents wished to incorporate protection of water resources, open space, and recreational
opportunities with the preservation of the Town’s rural character and small coastal community identity.
The Town of Brewster, through its Open Space Committee, and other Town departments, boards, and
committees, has worked hard to preserve the Town’s precious natural resources and to provide and
maintain a variety of public recreational facilities. The Town has built strong partnerships with non-profit
partners, such as the Brewster Conservation Trust, The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc.,
and other government agencies, such as the Cape Cod Commission to further open space and recreation
efforts.
For this 2021 OSRP update, the Town conducted a comprehensive review of the 2014 Plan as well as
other planning initiatives that support open space and recreation planning, particularly the Brewster
Vision Plan. The update of the OSRP involved an extensive public engagement campaign, including a
community survey and public forum. The town also engaged its municipal, regional, and non-profit
partners to ensure that the plan is comprehensive, realistic and achievable. The Plan includes an updated
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 2
inventory of open space and recreation lands, and an analysis of Brewster’s open space and recreation
needs. As a result of Brewster’s inclusive planning process, the five overarching goals of the 20 21 OSRP
are:
1. Protect the Town’s drinking water supply to meet the needs of residents and visitors today and in
the future.
2. Provide open space and recreation opportunities that maintain Brewster’s rural character and
small coastal community identity and support a sustainable local economy as a center for
ecotourism.
3. Preserve and enhance habitat diversity and protect marine and fresh surface water resources to
maintain their important ecological functions and values to the community.
4. Provide a variety of recreation and open space opportunities to promote healthy and active
lifestyles for Brewster residents, ensuring equitable accessible for all users a nd abilities.
5. Support coordination and communication of regional open space and recreation needs.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 3
SECTION 2. INTRODUCTION
Stony Brook Mill
A. Statement of Purpose
"Like so many Massachusetts communities, especially those near water, Brewster has experienced
overwhelming development pressures. These pressures threaten to erode the basic environmental
systems and very essence of this rural coastal community. We either have to secure essential and
ecologically significant tracts of land to preserve our natural heritage and communal well-being,
or suffer the environmental consequences and social costs of excessive, uncontrolled and
inappropriate growth” (Brewster Open Space Committee, 1985)
Written in the Foreword to the 1985 Open Space Plan, these words are as accurate and appropriate
today as they were then. The purpose of this Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) is to provide a
framework and guide for continued conservation and recreation planning in the Town of Brewster. Major
objectives are the conservation of Brewster's natural resources, protection of open spaces, and the
provision of public recreational opportunities.
The 2021 OSRP is an update of the 2014 OSRP. By maintaining a current plan, Brewster remains eligible
for state funding assistance for open space and recreation purchases and improvements. The 2021 OSRP
builds on earlier plans and incorporates existing and new goals of protecting natural resources,
conserving open space, and providing a recreation program that meets the needs of Brewster’s current
and future population. The Plan also updates the 2014 Action Plan, identifies new issues or changing
conditions since its approval, and assesses future needs based on community trends.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 4
1. Progress Since 2014
Appendix A provides a complete history of the Town’s open space accomplishments. The list below
highlights progress in the implementation of the 2014 OSRP’s Action Plan:
• Purchased Copelas properties and Chester Robinson property as dedicated open space.
• Continued monitoring lands within the Town’s Zone II Areas and Water Protection District and
considering opportunities for purchasing lands for open space protection.
• Continued implementation of the recommendations of Brewster’s Integrated Water Resource
Management Plan related to wastewater management with the completion of Phases II and III.
• Purchased Quivett Marsh Vista open space preservation in partnership with the Brewster
Conservation Trust.
• Several municipally owned properties that are important for conservation were transferred to the
custody and control of the Conservation Commission.
• Continued support of local farmers markets, “buy local” programs, and other steps to support
markets for locally grown produce, including the farmers market at the Brewster Historic Society.
• Adopted the Fertilizer Nutrient Control bylaw to ensure best management practices in the use of
fertilizers on managed turf areas to protect Brewster’s water resources.
• Purchased land that was vulnerable to coastal erosion, storm event flooding, or sea level rise,
which has led to reduced Flood Hazard Insurance rates for residents.
• Continued to organize public education and stewardship events, such as spring clean-up events.
• Hired Natural Resource Department staff to support growing demands of the department.
• Published trail maps and brochures of the Town’s conservation areas.
• Continued to add new recreational activities and programs, as well as courts for pickleball and
bocce ball.
• Continued work with neighboring towns to protect shared groundwater resources and
overlapping wellfield recharge areas, specifically participating in the Pleasant Bay Alliance with
Orleans and Harwich as well as with Dennis.
The work since 2014 emphasizes the importance of the OSRP in reaching natural resource protection
goals and meeting the recreational needs of residents.
B. Planning Process and Public Participation
The planning process to update the OSRP involved:
• Reviewing current, available data from local, regional, state, and federal sources.
• Reviewing current reports and studies around open space and recreational issues for Brewster
and the region.
• Reviewing the 2014 OSRP to identify completed action items, where new data and information is
needed, and other follow-up items.
• Engaging the public to ensure stated goals and objectives are still relevant.
• Engaging the public, including local nonprofits, community groups, and other stakeholders, to
understand changes since 2014 in open space and recreation needs and preferences.
• Engaging Town departments and decision makers to understand changes since 2014 in open
space and recreation policies.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 5
A working group made up of Town staff, including the Natural Resources Department and Recreation
Department, as well as representation from the Brewster Planning Board, Open Space Committee, and
the Cape Cod Commission helped guide the update process. Other Town department staff and Town
boards and commissions were also consulted. Stakeholders and members of the public were also asked
to provide input and perspective through the public engagement process. These included:
• Brewster Conservation Trust
• Association to Preserve Cape Cod
• Brewster Council on Aging
• Brewster Chamber of Commerce
• Nauset Public Schools
As noted above, the planning process of the 2021 OSRP involved the review of existing and ongoing open
space, recreation, natural resource, and resiliency planning initiatives to ensure consistency with these
efforts. As community driven projects, these initiatives involved significant public engagement such as
workshops, community surveys, and stakeholder meetings that represent the direction of residents. The
Town uses the resulting plans to guide local policies and actions. The OSRP needs to be consistent with
the documents, and it is also essential to not repeat what has already been asked and reported. The OSRP
provides an opportunity to explore areas of open space and recreation needs that may need more
attention or expand on current efforts as appropriate. It is important to recognize that the OSRP will not
list all the recommendations and strategies of these reports, plans, and strategies, but incorporates them
by reference, and any updates that take place going forward. This ensures a succinct and focused OSRP.
Below is a brief summary of planning initiatives and resources that the OSRP supports and references
throughout the document, as needed. It is followed by public engagement that was conducted as part of
the 2021 OSRP update process.
1. Previous Planning Initiatives
Brewster Integrated Water Resource Management Plan
In 2009, the Town of Brewster Comprehensive Water Planning Committee recognized that an integrated
approach was needed to protect and restore the Town’s waters. Integrated water management
recognizes that impacts to groundwater also affect surface waters and vice versa. Both water quality and
quantity impacts are possible, so any evaluation of the Town’s water resources must consider both. The
Brewster Integrated Water Resource Management Plan (IWRMP)1 was implemented in three phases.
Building on the work of Phases I and II, Phase III began in 2013 and assessed the challenges and proposed
solutions to manage the Town’s water resources, specifically the evaluation of wastewater and nitrogen
management alternatives, and the development and finalization of updated by-laws and regulations to
implement the stormwater management recommendations developed during Phase II.2
Brewster Coastal Adaptation Strategy
In 2016, the Brewster Coastal Access Advisory Group conducted a survey to gather opinions about
accessibility, amenities, usage, water quality, and other issues around the Town’s beaches. Around 2,000
1 https://horsleywitten.com/brewsterIWRMP/
2 https://horsleywitten.com/brewsterIWRMP/documents.html
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 6
people completed the survey. Results were used to develop the Brewster Coastal Adaptation Strategy.
The strategy is a framework for future decision-making about Brewster’s public coastal areas. It assists
the Town in meeting the diverse access needs of the community and adapting to coastal change, sea level
rise, storm surge, and shoreline erosion.
Biking Brewster: A Strategy to Enhance Biking in B rewster
Biking Brewster was drafted in 2016 by the Brewster Bikeways
Committee. It is a plan to help inform local decision makers about
improvements to the road network, upgrading public facilities, and
building public awareness in ways that promote the safe use of
bikes for recreation and as an alternative means of transportation in
Brewster. It builds on the 2014 OSRP, where residents expressed
the need for more bike trails and biking opportunities.
Brewster Age -Friendly Action Plan
In 2017, the Brewster Council on Aging worked with the Center for
Social and Demographic Research on Aging at the Gerontology
Institute at UMASS Boston. The project included a needs
assessment of the Town’s older residents, including recreational
needs.3
Brewste r Vision Plan
In 2017, the Town designed a visioning process that
engaged residents to understand the community’s
values, key issues the Town will face in the future,
and priority actions it should take to address these
issues. Three deep-dive community workshops
were held in late June of 2017 that asked residents
what they value about Brewster, what are its
challenges, and what are its assets. Approximately
135 citizens participated. The results led to the key
issues, or building blocks: community character,
open space, housing, local economy, coastal
management, water resources, governance, and
community infrastructure. Local experts worked together to draft summary papers for each building
block that provided background information and summaries of issues in Brewster. A second round of
workshops were held to review this information and produced a list of priority actions for the Town.
In February 2018, the Town administered a survey asking citizens to rate the importance of each action,
from “not important” to “extremely important.” The survey was available on-line and paper copies were
available in locations throughout town. Over 1,200 people took the survey. Water resources and open
3 http://records.brewster-ma.gov/weblink/0/doc/89079/Page1.aspx
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 7
space were the highest scoring building blocks. Because all the actions in these building blocks were rated
as important or higher, all were incorporated into the final Vision Plan.
From this input, the Town drafted the Brewster Vision Plan and conducted a final round of workshops
that focused on implementation. Participants identified stakeholders for each building block, including
Town government, community groups, and individuals. The final plan4 was presented to the Select Board,
which it approved in July 2018.
Brewster Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Workshop
In 2019, the Town received funding from the
Massachusetts Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness
(MVP) Program to complete climate change vulnerability
assessments and resiliency planning. An MVP workshop
was held in March 2019 to identify the natural hazards
threatening the Town that are exacerbated by climate
change. Mitigation actions that can be taken to reduce
the adverse effects were discussed and prioritized.
Twenty-two community members participated in the
workshop, representing different areas of Town.
Attendees recommended seven high priority action
items to address vulnerabilities and build on existing
strengths. The seven elements are highlighted in the
MVP Workshop Summary Report.5 Following the
workshop, the Town held a public information and
listening session to provide an opportunity for residents to learn, ask questions, and provide feedback on
the seven high priority items identified at the workshop.
Brewster Coastal Resources Management Plan
In 2019, Phase 1 of the Town’s Coastal Resources Management Plan was released.6 Lead by the Brewster
Coastal Committee, the plan articulates a vision and policy direction for managing the Town’s coastal
resources. It identifies five priority issues and recommends management strategies for implementation.
These include:
• Increase resilience of public beaches and landings
• Preserve ecosystem services provided by healthy coastal wetlands
• Provide access for water dependent activities
• Preserve peak-season access to public beaches and landings
• Protect infrastructure, visual access, and sense of place threatened by changing conditions
4 http://records.brewster-ma.gov/weblink/DocView.aspx?dbid=0&id=90826&page=1&cr=1
5 http://records.brewster-
ma.gov/weblink/0/edoc/107178/Brewster%20MVP%20Workshop%20Summary%20Report.pdf
6 https://www.brewster-ma.gov/committees-mainmenu-29/coastal-committee/2588-final-phase-i-brewster-
coastal-resource-management-plan
Kari Hoffman, former Planning Board member
and current Select Board member, at the MVP
workshop
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 8
The plan builds on prior planning initiatives, including those listed above. It was developed with the
consultation with topical experts and public input from five workshops. The plan will help the Town meet
the diverse access needs of the community and adapt to coastal change.
2. Community Survey
A community survey was administered between April 13 and May 11, 2020. It was available through the
Town’s website, and municipal departments and local partners were asked to send the survey via email to
their memberships, including the School Department, Recreation Department, Council on Aging, Brewster
Land Trust, Association to Preserve Cape Cod, and others.
It should be noted that the Town began the update of the OSRP at the onset of the 2019 novel
Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, which greatly impacted how it was able to conduct public engagement.
On March 10, 2020, Governor Charles Baker issued a State of Emergency, which was followed by Order
No. 13 on March 23, ordering the closure of non-essential businesses and prohibiting the gathering of
more than 10 people through April 7, which was extended to May 18, at which time select businesses
were opened and under strict protocols to protect public health. In late April, the Governor announced
that public schools would remain closed and virtual learning would continue through the end of the year.
While Town government continued to provide services during this time, Town Hall and other municipal
facilities were closed to the public. The Town was unable to make paper copies of the survey available at
popular locations, and the mailing surveys was both cost prohibitive and administratively difficult given
public health concerns.
The survey was reopened from June 1 to 30, 2021. Because town buildings were open to the public on a
limited basis, flyers were posted in Town Hall and the Library and sen t to local partners. Paper copies of
the survey were available upon request from the Department of Natural Resources.
A total of 600 responded to the survey. See Section 6. Community Vision and Appendix B for a summary
of the community survey results.
3. Public Workshop
By June 2020, the Commonwealth had begun its second phase of a four-phased reopening of businesses
and institutions. Town Hall was still closed, and public gatherings were limited to 10 people. On June 18,
2020, the Town held a virtual meeting to present the draft sections of the OSRP for public comment.
Draft materials were posted on the Town’s website and residents were encouraged to email comments
and questions in advance of the virtual meeting. The meeting presented an overview of the OSRP, why
the Town has a plan, needs identified in the community survey and planning initiatives since the last OSRP
update, and draft goals and objectives. Viewers could email questions live. Draft materials remained on
the Town’s website and comments were accepted through June 26, 2020, a week after the virtual
meeting.
A second virtual public workshop was held June 15, 2021. Because town buildings were open to the
public on a limited basis, flyers were posted in Town Hall and the Library and sent to local partners. It was
also promoted on the Town’s website. A presentation summarized the OSRP and encouraged residents to
take the community survey that was reopened. Town staff also answered questions from attendees.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 9
C. Enhanced Outreach and Public Participation for
Environmental Justice Populations
The Massachusetts Environmental Justice (EJ) Policy defines EJ populations as “those segments of the
population that EOEA has determined to be most at risk of being unaware of or unable to participate in
environmental decision-making or to gain access to state environmental resources. They are defined as
neighborhoods (U.S. Census Bureau census block groups) that meet one or more of the following criteria:
• The median annual household income is at or below 65% of the statewide median income for
Massachusetts; or
• 25 percent of the residents are minority; or
• 25 percent of the residents are foreign born; or
• 25 percent of the residents are lacking English language proficiency.”
The Massachusetts Office of Geographic Information (MassGIS) has mapped environmental justice
populations for all communities in Massachusetts. According to the mapping provided by MassGIS,
Brewster does not currently encompass any EJ populations according to the criteria summarized above.
In addition, according to the U.S. Census, over 95% of the population speaks only English. Despite this,
the Town of Brewster made every effort to include all citizens in the public participation component of
the OSRP.
“Environmental Justice is based on the principle that all people have a right to be protected from
environmental pollution, and to live in and enjoy a clean and healthful environment. Environmental
justice is the equal protection and meaningful involvement of all people with respect to the
development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies
and the equitable distribution of environmental benefits.”
Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA),
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 10
SECTION 3. COMMUNITY SETTING
Stony Brook Field. Photo credit: John Phelan
A. Regional Context
Brewster is a Massachusetts town located within what is referred to as “lower Cape Cod” (Map 1). The
approximately 22.55-square-mile coastal town within Barnstable County is bordered to the north by Cape
Cod Bay, to the east by the Town of Orleans, to the west by the Town of Dennis and to the south by the
Town of Harwich. Brewster has an abundance of natural resources and miles of both coastal and
freshwater shoreline. The town has been committed to the protection of its valuable natural resources
for decades, and established the groundwork for the acquisition of dedicated open space with its
purchase of large expanses of coastal wetlands in the 1960s. Brewster has largely retained its physical
natural beauty and serenity, to which the residents of the town have added a strong sense of historical
continuity and present-day community.
Brewster lies within the Cape Cod Watershed, which extends 70 miles into the Atlantic Ocean, and is
surrounded by Buzzards Bay, Cape Cod Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and Nantucket Sound. The watershed
encompasses a drainage area of approximately 440 square miles and includes 560 miles of coastline, 53
embayments, 996 ponds, 158 municipal water supply wells, and eight ACECs. The Town of Brewster
encompasses six of these embayment watersheds, which it shares with neighboring jurisdictions,
including Cape Cod Bay, Herring River, Namskaket Creek, Pleasant Bay, Quivett Creek, and Stony Brook
watersheds. Brewster also contains a very small portion of the Bass River watershed.
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
ORLEANS
BREWSTER
DENNIS
HARWICH
CHATHAM
¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Regional Context Adjacent Town
Locus - Brewster
Map 1
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 12
Cape Cod was formed by glaciers approximately 20,000 years ago and is comprised of a series of
interconnected broad, glacial outwash plains and hilly moraines. There are 15 towns in the Cape Cod
Watershed that comprise Barnstable County. Many of the towns on the Cape are divided into villages,
each with its own unique personality. The watershed supports a year-round population of approximately
250,000 people and a peak summertime population of approximately 500,000 people. In 1961, 70 square
miles - or approximately half of the Outer Cape - was granted National Park status and named the Cape
Cod National Seashore, which currently receives 5 million visitors a year.
Residents and visitors make heavy use of the natural resources in Brewster and across Cape Cod. The
beaches and ponds provide places to sunbathe and swim, picnic, and relax. Salt marshes, teeming with
life, provide inspiration for artists, opportunities for canoeing, kayaking and shellfishing, and salt hay for
gardens. These resources draw visitors to Brewster and provide refuges for wildlife and plant species.
Brewster shares many of its resources with neighboring communities (Table 3.1). As such, protection and
maintenance of these resources often requires regional collaboration.
Table 3.1. Brewster’s Shared/Abutting Resources
Resource Communities/Regions/State
Cape Cod Bay Bourne, Sandwich, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis,
Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, Provincetown,
State of Massachusetts
Pleasant Bay Orleans, Chatham, Harwich
Long Pond Harwich, State of Massachusetts
Quivett Creek Dennis
Paine’s Creek Dennis
Namskaket Creek Orleans
Inner Cape Cod Bay Area of Critical Environmental
Concern
Brewster, Orleans
Diadramous Fish Run Harwich
Coastal Plain Pond Shores and Priority Habitat (Cahoon
Pond, Mill Pond, Grassy Pond, Mud Pond, Black Pond,
Seymour Pond, Round Pond)
Harwich
Bakers Pond - Coastal Plain Pond Shores and Priority
Habitat
Orleans
Bakers Pond Conservation Area Within Orleans Zone II
SE Brewster Read Kingsbury Conservation Area Within Orleans Zone II
Sandwich Moraine Outwash Plain Bourne, Sandwich, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis,
Harwich, Orleans
Monomoy Lens (Zone II Groundwater Protection
Districts)
Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Chatham
SW Brewster Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area Abuts Harwich Wellfields
SW Brewster Conservation Lands: Mother’s Bog,
Meetinghouse Road, Windrift Conservation Areas
Abut Dennis Water District Wellfields
Cape Cod Rail Trail Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Eastham Wellfleet
Cape Cod Pathways Trail All Cape Cod Towns, Barnstable County
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 13
B. History of the Community
John Hay, well-known Brewster author, conservationist, and educator, once wrote: We have "to turn back
to the lessons of the past, in hopes of saving the future" (Hay, 1979). To understand Brewster today, one
has to look to its past. The very early history of Brewster has been described by Dr. Fred Dunford, past
staff archaeologist at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, in excerpts from the book, Secrets In The
Sand by Dr. Dunford and Greg O'Brien.
The record of human activity on the Cape is rich and diverse, covering almost 8,000 years of Native
American pre-historic use, followed by 500 years of European involvement. "When Native Americans
arrived at Cape Cod some 10,500 years ago, they found an environment entirely different from that of
today. Cape Cod was a foothill at one end of a vast plain that stretched as far eastward as George's Bank.”
As European settlers began to arrive, the area now known as Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro , and
Provincetown were purchased from the Native Americans in 1644 and incorporated as Nauset in 1646.
The area which became Harwich and Brewster was originally a lower cape territory which included Native
American land and land known as “Purchases of Old Comers Reserve.” One of the first settlers in the
“Brewster” area, known as the North Parish of Harwich, was John Wing in 1658. The Parishes of Harwich
were incorporated through the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1864. Harwich remained intact until 1772,
when the southeastern part separated off to become Eastham. Then, in 1803, after a bitter struggle, the
north and south parishes separated into the Towns of Brewster and Harwich. Brewster’s population was
only 1,111 in 1810.
As the North Parish had developed, the Stony Brook Herring Run was an important fishery for the settlers,
most of whom were farmers. As the forests were cleared for farming, the lumber was used for houses,
boat building and salt works.
Many sections of Brewster were originally divided into a series of long narrow parcels, forming the
familiar "Long Lots." Looking at Brewster town assessor’s maps today, one still sees many of these long
narrow wood lots. Early agricultural practices and the demand for hardwoods such as oak to build homes
and Atlantic white cedar for ships led to rapid deforestation. Once the forests were gone, the soil quickly
dried out and blew away in the ever-prevalent winds. Anything that did grow was soon grazed off by
sheep, 10,000 of which were reported in
Barnstable alone in the late 1600s. As the
soil was exhausted, farmers took to the
sea. By 1676 with much of the vast
forests gone, some towns had bylaws that
exacted fines for wasting wood or letting
it rot. By 1800, there had been a total
clearing of more than 31,000 acres on
Cape Cod and lumber had to be imported.
Brewster's early economy remained
centered on Stony Brook. The first grist
mill was built there before 1662. The
establishment of other small enterprises
in what was known as "Factory Village" Stony Brook Grist Mill. Photo credit: John Phelan
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 14
brought customers from afar to purchase cloth, boots, and food during the late 18th and early 19th
centuries.
The salt marshes also played an important part in the lives of early colonists. Livestock was pastured on
them and salt hay was cut for fodder. By the late 1600's, many of the resource areas were overused and
depleted. In the early 1700s, colonists were actively trying to prevent erosion of the beaches, thereby
protecting the marshes. In 1732 they banned livestock from some beaches, except for oxen that were still
used in the fishing industry. Beach areas were extensively used for the production of salt, becoming a big
business for Brewster. In 1802 there were twenty-one salt works in the town. By 1831 the number of
salt work had climbed to seventy-six scattered along the Brewster shore with an annual capacity of
104,717 feet representing one tenth of Cape Cod’s 1.4 million feet of salt works. Salt production and
repair of the wooden works provided many jobs to Brewster residents, bringing badly-needed
income to local farmers. When salt became less expensive to produce elsewhere, the salt works were
gradually dismantled and the lumber reused in buildings that are still in use today.
Based on 1831 maps, cranberry bogs in the
freshwater wetlands, together with the related
ditches, were a predominant feature of the
landscape. The ditches were installed to drain
standing water from the cranberry bogs, once it was
no longer needed. Many of these ditches remain to
this day.
Early attempts at resource protection were too little
and too late. Clear-cutting and neglectful agricultural
methods took their toll. When Henry David Thoreau
visited the Cape between 1849 and 1855, he
described "singular barren hills, all stricken with
poverty grass, desolate, with soil no farmer would
think of cultivating. It was hard to distinguish soil
from sand.”
Yet Brewster still prospered towards midcentury as the population rose to 1586 by 1850. With limited
economic opportunities in Brewster many local sons turned to the sea starting in the early 1800s. Some
turned to fishing, although Brewster had no port, and some were involved in the packet ships that
brought goods from Boston to the Cape. While Brewster built a pier for the packet ships making it a
transportation hub of the area, the building of the Cape Cod Rail Road in the 1860s and through to
Orleans by 1865 spelled the end of the Packet ship era. Other young men signed on to sailing ships that
plied the oceans from port to port, their captains arranging cargoes for delivery to other ports. This
process might keep them at sea for several years. A tally by the late1800s listed over a hundred ships’
captains and officers buried in Brewster’s cemeteries. The captains and crews of these ships shared in the
profits of these voyages. Returning to Brewster with their riches ship captains often used their gains to
build mansions for their families along 6A. Their travels, often dangerous and sometimes deadly are well
documented in books by several authors. The days of entrepreneurial sailing ship captains faded in the
second half of the 1800s with the end of the cotton trade and the rise of subsidized and scheduled British
steam shipping. Thus, many young Brewster men shifted their sights seeking riches in the frontier town of
c. 1893 – photographer Cornelius Chenery.
Cranberry screening. From the Brewster Historical
Society’s “Brewster in Black and White” collection.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 15
the West, Chicago. Some later returned to Brewster towards the end of the century with their riches to
build great stately mansions. Nickerson and Crosby are two whose legacy homes still grace Brewster
today.
An insight into the economies of the time can be obtained by looking at real estate valuation lists of this
period. Brewster resident Paul F. Saint in his book, The Saints of Brewster, reports that “in 1862 Saint’s
Rest had an assessed value of only $20, while the cow of the Saints had an assessed valued of $30 as it
was considered ‘income producing’ property” (Saint, 1996). Brewster, during this time, was primarily a
rural pocket along the "King's Highway" between Barnstable and the developing Eastham-Orleans
centers. By the late 1800s, after much of Brewster’s original woodlands had been cut, second-growth
pine/oak forests started covering the area. With limited commerce, only some farming and cranberries,
there was little to keep the younger adults from moving to the more prosperous cities. Thus, the year-
round population shrank to 631 by 1910, only 40% of the 1850 level.
Although Brewster was still a quiet town, at the turn of the 20th century the beaches slowly grew more
active as summer vacation communities were built along the shores of Cape Cod Bay. During prohibition
residents beach “activities” also included scavenging for whiskey. Walkers on the flats would often come
upon cases of alcohol tossed overboard by rumrunners attempting to evade arrest by federal prohibition
officers. While there was little industry the town folk still suffered during the Depression. There was not
starvation with food from the garden; clams and fish from the sea. But many of the old sea captain homes
were boarded up and most children dropped out of high school before graduation to find work to help
feed their families. Oral histories from residents who grew up here in the 1920s and 30s talk about
working in family cranberry bogs, picking beach plums, harvesting fish from the numerous f ish weirs, and
hunting local woodlands as ways to supplement meager incomes and put food on the table
A major event during this time period was the establishment of the 14,000-acre Nickerson State Park in
the 1930s, a gift of the Nickerson family’s hunting and fishing preserve. This acquisition, along with the
expansion of summer camps and cottage colonies along the beaches increased the use of the Cape and
especially Brewster as a "summer escape" destination. After World War II the Cape started to grow more
rapidly. More people summered here, but Brewster’s year-round population remained very low, at 827 in
1940. In the 1950s the new Route 6 was created, connecting eastern portions of the Cape to the bridges
over the Cape Cod Canal. By 1970 Brewster’s population had finally inched above the previous peak of
Map of Brewster
c. 1860s shows
original property
owners names of
the period.
Source: Brewster
Historical Society
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 16
1850 to 1790 souls. As Brewster became
a summer recreation destination the era
of “Second Homes” commenced. With it
came a boom in the year-round
population to ten thousand by the turn of
the twenty first century.
In the 1960s, Brewster had initiated
acquisition and control of sensitive
wetlands, marshes, and ponds as well as
established Cape Cod Bay access points.
Large residential subdivisions were
developed, however increasingly
restrictive zoning law limited densities.
The Town attempted to balance this
growth by acquiring land with additions such as the Punkhorn Parklands and other significant parcels. The
Town’s continued process of land acquisition and restrictive zoning have helped maintain the quiet, rural
atmosphere valued by residents and visitors alike.
The Brewster Historical Society, established in 1964, collects and preserves the artifacts and history of
Brewster to ensure their future accessibility. At Windmill Meadow, adjacent to the Town Drummer Boy
Park, the Society has the restored 18th century Higgins Farm Windmill, the circa 1795 Harris Black House
and the working Hopkins Blacksmith Shop circa 1867.
Furthermore, Brewster joined other towns along Route 6A in creating a historic district. The Old Kings
Highway Regional District was created in 1973 and the National Register District was established in 1996.
These actions helped maintain the historic nature of Brewster’s village core to this day.
Recently, the Brewster Historical Society restored the circa 1799 Captain Elijah Cobb House, gardens, and
outbuildings. The House, now a museum, also functions as the Society’s headquarters. The Museum
holds five permanent galleries and an extensive documents research area accessible by appointment.
The Town also leases an historic site, the Crosby Estate from the state. The 1888 eclectic 35-room Crosby
Mansion is the centerpiece of Albert Crosby’s seaside estate. The mansion, named “Tawasentha” was
built around Crosby’s childhood home, an early 19th century Cape Cod-style house. Following the death
of Crosby’s widow Matilda in 1930, the mansion was used as a hotel, a school for the arts, and in 1959,
became Camp Seascape for Girls. In 1985, the Massachusetts Division of Conservation and Recreation
(MA DCR) purchased the mansion, several outbuildings, and some cottages once connected to the
Nickerson family estate, as well as the former Camp Monomoy. In 1999, legislation designated the Town
of Brewster, in partnership with the Friends of Crosby Mansion, as lessees for the Mansion, the Crosby
Cottage and Garage, and two seaside cottages (i.e., Sully and Graham). A 25-year lease was executed in
2003, which is managed through the MA DCR’s Historic Curatorship Program. The Friends now rent the
three cottages and use revenues generated to rehabilitate the mansion. Since the lease began in 2003,
the Town of Brewster and Friends of the Crosby Mansion “have invested over to $500,000 and thousands
of dollars in volunteer labor and donated materials” into the rehabilitation, management, and
maintenance of the property as a house museum and event center” (Foley 2015). The Friends offer six
open houses annually and rent the mansion for weddings and other functions.
Historic postcard of Cliff Pond at Nickerson State Park, 1930-45.
Source: Boston Public Library
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 17
The state also leases the former Camp Monomoy to the Cape Repertory Theatre. Robert J. “Captain Del”
Delahanty founded the boys’ camp in 1922, started Camp Wono for Girls in 1939, and added a day
camping program in the 1960s, forming the Cape Cod Sea Camps. The camp was purchased by the state
in 1983 and added to Nickerson. In 1991, the Cape Rep was named lessee of some of the camp buildings
as well as the Cape House and Barn through special legislation. Under the 25-year lease agreement, the
non-profit theater uses the properties for theatrical programs and performances. The buildings include
the 1790 expanded Cape Cod style residence that is used as offices, the late 19th century barn, which is
used for storage, the mid-20th century outdoor theater, which was an outdoor chapel at Camp
Monomoy, and the former Camp Monomoy dining hall which is used as an indoor theater. The Cape Rep
has restored and rehabilitated a number of the buildings over the years, with the help of donations,
grants and town funds. The Cape Rep maintains buildings and grounds within their control and offers six
to eight plays per year.
Cape Rep Theatre has a long-term lease of the former Camp Monomy. It has the only outdoor theater on Cape
Cod (left) and has preserved the Barn (center) and Cape House (left). Photo credits: Cape Rep Theatre
C. Population Characteristics
1. Population Growth/Trends
Cape Cod has experienced some of the state’s highest population growth over the last century. Table 3.2
shows that population growth in the region has always been high, ranking in the top three regions across
the state. The exception is in the last two decades (2000-2019), where Barnstable County had the lowest
population growth among the Commonwealth’s 14 counties.
Table 3.2. Cape Cod Population Growth Rate, 1920-2019
Years
Rank Among All
MA Counties
Growth/
Decline (%)
Population
(in latter year)
Gain/Loss in
Decade
1920–1930 3 21.10 32,305 5,635
1930–1940 1 15.4 37,295 4,990
1940–1950 1 25.5 46,805 9,510
1950–1960 1 50.2 70,286 23,481
1960–1970 1 37.5 96,656 26,370
1970–1980 1 53 147,925 51,269
1980–1990 2 26.1 186,605 38,680
1990–2000 3 19.1 222,230 35,625
2000–2010 14 -2.9 215,888 -6,342
2010-2019 -1.34 212,990 -2,898
Source: Cape Cod Commission, US Census 2010
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 18
Brewster’s growth rate has been variable over the same period, but the town experienced a similar trend
from 2000 – 2020 with a decrease in total population. Table 3-3 shows Brewster's growth rate between
1920 and 2020. In the 1960's, Brewster had a 44.8% growth rate, moderately higher than the county's
37.5%. From 1970 to 1980 the town experienced a significant population increase from 1,790 to 5,226
year-round residents, a 192% increase. This was the largest population increase of any town on the Cape.
Over the next decade the town’s population increased to 8,440, a 61.5% increase, the third highest
increase on the Cape. The town’s population still increased, but a bit more slowly (19.6%) between 1990
and 2000 to 10,094 year-round residents in 2000.
Table 3.3. Brewster Population Growth Rate, 1920-2020
Years
Growth/
Decline (%)
Population
(in latter year)
Gain/Loss in
Decade
1920–1930 769
1930–1940 7.5 827 58
1940–1950 19.3 987 160
1950–1960 25.2 1,236 249
1960–1970 44.8 1,790 554
1970–1980 192 5,226 3,436
1980-1990 61.5 8,440 3,214
1990-2000 19.6 10,094 1,654
2000-2010 -2.71 9,820 -274
2010-2020 -4.93 9,335 -485
Source: Cape Cod Commission, US Census 2010, Brewster Town Clerk, 6-2020
Brewster has experienced a 2.71% population decrease between 2000 and 2010, and a 4.93% decrease
between 2010 and 2020. The current population is estimated to be about 9,335 year-round residents.
Population growth rates are affected by many factors including economic trends, employment
opportunities, real estate costs, and the availability of buildable land. The reasons for Brewster’s slowing
growth rate are unclear; possible factors include the relatively sluggish economy, an increase in second
home purchases, high real estate prices and the decrease in developable lots.
Like most of Barnstable County, Brewster has a large proportion of seasonal housing stock and
experiences substantial population fluctuations due to its summer resort/retirement community status.
Currently, the population more than triples in the summer, from a year-round population of about 9,335
to an estimated 35,000 people during the summer season. This large influx of seasonal residents places
added stress on the town’s natural resources as well as its open space and recreational facilities. The
likelihood that many second homeowners will transition to year-round residents is also an important
consideration for long-range planning.
2. Population Density
The approximately 23 square mile town has a year-round population density of about 406 people per
square mile. Seasonally, the population density in Brewster increases to 1,521 people per square mile
(Map 2). This increased density, which is experienced across Cape Cod places stress not only on the
town’s natural resources and recreation facilities, but also infrastructure, such as roads and public water
and wastewater infrastructure.
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Population Density
Showing Commercial and Residential Structures
Building Footprint (2014 Aerial Survey)
Adjacent Town
Total Population: 9,820 (2010 Census)
Map 2
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 20
3. Age
The demographics on Cape Cod, particularly as they relate to age, have shifted considerably in recent
years. The flight of youth raised on Cape Cod (that do not return) combined with the increasing
retirement population, has led to this dramatic shift, which was evident in the 2010 US Census.
The school-age children and residents between the ages of 20 and 44 years decreased by 25% and 26%,
respectively, from 2000 to 2010. By 2018, the number of school aged children declined to 806, or 44.5%;
however, people 20 to 44 years saw an increase of 12.5%. These data reflected the decrease in
elementary school enrollment, yet the town does not appear to be losing its young adults and young
families. Whereas the decrease in the young professional population on Cape Cod is thought to have had
large impacts on the local economy, job market, and public transportation opportunities, Brewster is
experiencing an increase in this age group.
The number of people aged 65 and over increased by 4.2%, and those aged 60 to 64 increased by over
100%. The median age also increased between 2000 and 2010 from 46.9 to 53.5, a 14% increase. During
this time, the number of 45- to 64-year-old adults decreased by 28.4%. While the population of 64 and
older increased to 3,933, a dramatic 42.6% increase, with the median age increasing from 53.5 to 57, a
6.5% increase.
These age trends have impacts on needs related to open space and recreation resources also. For
example, there may be more of a need currently for passive recreation opportunities for the town’s
senior population, whereas opportunities for school-age children may be experiencing a lack of
enrollment and/or interest (Table 3-4).
Table 3.4. Brewster Age Profile
Age Group 2010 2020 Percent Change
Total population 9,820 9,335 4.9% decline
Under 5 years 345 86 75.1% decline
5 to 19 years 1,451 806 44.5% decline
20 to 44 years 1,803 2,029 12.5% increase
45 to 64 years 3,463 2,481 28.4% decrease
65 and over 2,758 3,933 42.6% increase
Median age (years) 53.5 57 6.5% increase
Source: U.S. Census 2000 and 2010, Brewster Town Clerk 6-2020
This shift is anticipated to have impacts on the socioeconomics of the region and may be one of the
causes for the trend observed in Table 3.5. This is important to note since a decrease in overall
socioeconomic conditions in the town could have impacts on the community’s tax base and ability to
purchase and maintain open space and recreation resources.
These age trends are experienced across Cape Cod, and the town will work with neighboring communities
and the region to help identify ways to address the associated challenges with the region’s changing
demographics.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 21
4. Income and Employment
Table 3.5 provides an economic overview of Brewster. It is a highly educated community, with more than
half of its residents (61.3%) receiving a bachelor’s degree or higher. It is also an older community as
mentioned above. The percentage of residents in the labor force (16 years and older) represent about
half its population (49%), compared to 67.1% in Massachusetts, indicating that many residents are
retired. Of those that are in the labor force, most are working. In 2018, the unemployment rate in
Brewster was 3.3%, 4.7% in Barnstable County, and 5.4% in Massachusetts. These figures do not take into
consideration the impacts of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic on local, regional, and national economies.
The lasting economic implications of business closures in Brewster, Cape Cod, and the Commonwealth
are unknown at the time this plan is being updated but are expected to be long-lasting.
Table 3.5. An Overview of Brewster, MA
People & Housing Employment & Income
Population Estimate (2020) 9,335 Labor Force (persons working in the area)
(2018) 4,860
H.S. Diploma or More - % of Adults 25+
(2018) 100.0% Unemployment Rate (2018) 3.3
Bachelor's Deg. or More - % of Adults 25+
(2018) 61.3% Avg. Wage per Job N/A
Households (2018) 4,282 Median Household Income (2018) $58,214
Total Housing Units (2018) 7,993 % Derived from Earnings (2018) 48.90%
% of Total Units Vacant for Seasonal or
Recreational Use (2018) 60.6% Median Family Income (2018) $77,540
Median Value of Owner-Occupied
Housing (2018) $456,800 Poverty Rate (2018) 5.0%
Total Building Permits Issued N/A Mean Travel Time to Work (minutes)
(2018) 21.7
Source: 2018 Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; STATSCapeCod and Cape Cod Commission BART (Barnstable Area Regional
Trends) Data, 2018; Brewster Town Clerk, 2020
Like most other Cape Cod communities, Brewster maintains a generally high socioeconomic status,
particularly when considering the seasonal population. However, Brewster’s year-round population had
been experiencing a slight decrease when compared to the State but was in a better position than the
County for median household income. Brewster had a lower poverty status than both the State and the
County (Table 3.6).
Table 3.6. Median Household Income and Poverty Status for Town of Brewster, 2010 and 2018
Massachusetts Barnstable County Town of Brewster
2010 2018 2010 2018 2010 2018
Median Household Income $64,509 $77,378 $60,317 $69,001 $58,374 $58,214
Poverty Status – All Families 7.5% 11.1% 5.0% 7.5% 5.5% 5.0%
Source: 2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; STATSCapeCod, Cape Cod Commission BART (Barnstable Area
Regional Trends) Data, 2018
As can be seen in Table 3.7, the percentage of people employed within the service industry (including
food and retail service) and construction industry within the Town of Brewster and Barnstable County is
higher than the Massachusetts average. This is typical for a tourist destination such as Cape Cod.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 22
However, slow growth and decreased economic conditions, which have impacted the tourism industry
that Cape Cod depends on, have affected these tourism-dependent sectors as well, likely exacerbating
the increase in unemployment rates, decrease in median household incomes, and increase in the poverty
rate experienced in Brewster.
Table 3.7. Income and Employment for Town of Brewster
Massachusetts Barnstable County Town of Brewster
2010 2018 2010 2018 2010 2018
Percent Unemployed 3.0% 7.4% 3.0% 6.2% 1.4% 5.0%
OCCUPATION
Management, business, science, and arts
occupations 41.1% 42.8% 35.1% 37.5% 37.2% 36.2%
Service occupations 14.1% 16.6% 18.2% 19.3% 17.6% 18.6%
Sales and office occupations 25.9% 24.2% 27.5% 24.9% 27.7% 27.4%
Natural resources, construction, and
maintenance occupations 7.7% 7.4% 11.7% 11.5% 11.0% 11.7%
Production, transportation, and material
moving occupations 11.3% 9.1% 7.5% 6.7% 6.5% 6.0%
INDUSTRY
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting,
and mining 0.4% 0.4% 0.9% 0.8% 0.6% 0.0%
Construction 5.5% 5.9% 9.7% 10.0% 10.7% 9.8%
Manufacturing 12.8% 9.9% 4.8% 4.3% 3.3% 4.0%
Wholesale trade 3.3% 2.7% 2.2% 2.1% 1.4% 1.4%
Retail trade 11.2% 10.7% 14.9% 12.7% 16.1% 17.7%
Transportation and warehousing, and
utilities 4.2% 3.8% 4.3% 4.1% 3.7% 2.5%
Information 3.7% 2.7% 2.6% 2.3% 2.4% 2.0%
Finance and insurance, and real estate and
rental and leasing 8.2% 8.1% 6.6% 6.5% 6.4% 6.6%
Professional, scientific, and management,
and administrative and waste
management services
11.6% 12.7% 10.1% 11.6% 10.8% 8.8%
Educational services, and health care and
social assistance 23.7% 26.7% 22.6% 23.9% 22.2% 24.8%
Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and
accommodation and food services 6.8% 8.0% 11.3% 11.1% 12.5% 12.5%
Other services, except public
administration 4.4% 4.5% 5.1% 5.5% 5.8% 6.4%
Public administration 4.3% 4.1% 5.0% 5.1% 4.0% 3.5%
Median household income (dollars) $50,502 $64,509 $45,933 $60,317 $49,276 $58,374
Percentage of families below the poverty
limit 6.7% 7.5% 4.6% 5.0% 1.6% 5.5%
Source: US Census 2010; 2018 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 23
5. Environmental Equity/Justice Populations
Brewster does not have significant populations meeting the income and minority criteria used by the
2010 MassGIS work that identifies and maps environmental justice populations for all communities in
Massachusetts. The criteria used for identifying environmental justice populations include:
• Income – households earn 65% or less of the statewide median income
• Minority – 25% or more of residents are minority
• Foreign Born – 25% or more of residents are foreign born
• Lacking English Proficiency – 25% or more residents are lacking in English proficiency
There are no populations identified based on either minority classification or based on the income data
layer (Map 3). However, there are certainly populations in Brewster whose income is at poverty level,
10.9% as of 2011 per STATS Cape Cod. According to a report entitled Monitoring the Human Condition
2009 prepared by the Barnstable County Department of Human Services, the following populations of
need are found in the County, and in Brewster:
• Low-income young households with one to two children who rent their home and may receive
some financial assistance.
• Low-income young to middle-age households with at most one child who rent, are homeless or
live in a group home.
• Low-income young to middle-age households with no more than one child who rent, are
homeless or live in a group home. These households also may be cultural minorities, receiving
financial assistance, or chronically ill. This group is considered by the report as the most needy
among Cape Cod households.
There do not appear to be specific low economic population pockets, but populations may be spread in
all areas of town.
D. Development Patterns and Trends
While Brewster retains many of its small town, rural qualities, many areas are characterized by single-
family, residential development with areas of commercial development concentrated along Route 6A as
well as along Underpass Road and at the Route 137/Millstone Road intersection. There is also an
industrial district in the southeastern section of town.
Through the later part of the twentieth century, Brewster’s permanent population steadily grew. In the
1980s and 1990s, new residential development concentrated south of Route 6A, which moved from west
to east until it abutted the border of Nickerson State Park. These subdivisions were designed with lots
ranging from ¼ to ½ acre in size. Larger lots were developed around the town’s ponds.
The Town has constructed two elementary schools. In 1973, the Town had built the Stony Brook
Elementary School off Underpass Road. In 1999, a second school, the Eddy Elementary School was
constructed on Main Street to meet increased student enrollment and projections.
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Environmental Justice Population
No Block Groups Meet The Criteria
Environmental Justice by Income
Adjacent Towns
Environmental Justice (EJ) populations are determined by identifying all
Census 2010 block groups that meet any of the following criteria:
Income: Households earn 65% or less of statewide median household income.
Minority Population: 25% or more of residents identify as a race other than white.
English Language Isolation: 25% or more of households have no one over the
age of 14 who speaks English only or very well.
Map 3
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 25
In the late 1980s the town approved Ocean Edge, a large planned unit development in east central
Brewster near Nickerson State Park that covered 390 acres and was planned to have more than 1,200
units. This development was large for Brewster, and its effects on traffic and service needs are still being
felt today.
Dealing with the complexities of Ocean Edge and the increased pressure of new residential development
required the town to revisit its approach to future development. It became necessary to consider where
development would be located in relation to the town’s natural resources, and how anticipated future
impacts would be mitigated. Further, visitors to the area nearly triple the town’s population during the
summer months. These visitors are staying in either newly constructed seasonal homes or camping in
Nickerson State Park and other sites. Most are drawn to the area for its outdoor recreational
opportunities, and it is anticipated that this seasonal influx will not wane.
The demands for open space and recreational resources are driven by both year -round residents, which
are increasing in age, and seasonal visitors, which have a wide range of ages, from young families to
retirees. Meeting these demands while maintaining and enhancing the integrity of the town’s natural
features will need to be balanced.
1. Infrastructure
This section describes the Town’s existing infrastructure and the effects it has had on development
patterns. The intent is to understand the effects of the community’s “gray” infrastructure on its “green”
infrastructure, or open space, and to help define and preserve the community’s character.
Transportation
Brewster is located midway on Cape Cod and is accessible by major highways (Route 6, 6A, 124, and 137).
Route 6A extends the length of Brewster and is Brewster's Main Street. It is synonymous with the scenic,
aesthetic, historic, economic, and rural character of the town. It is a designated scenic road and
registered as the Old King's Highway National Register District to further protect it from pressure to
accommodate increased traffic that would extinguish the roadway's historically valuable character.
Pressure increases each year to expand the roadway to accommodate bike traffic and reconfigure some
intersections where left hand turns cause back-ups in traffic. Attempts to expand the paved width of
roads to accommodate pedestrian, bike, and skate traffic have been met with strong opposition from
abutters to the roads. Only three roads have sidewalks, albeit incomplete ones. Many pedestrian paths
run along portions of these roads. Shoulders tend to be narrow and somewhat steep, with utility poles,
trees and smaller vegetation interrupting the shoulders, pathways, and sidewalks. Despite the
impediments, bike traffic along Route 6A is encouraged to travel on the sidewalk or on the unpaved
shoulders, instead of in the vehicular lanes.
Residents and visitors also have use of the Flex Bus Service which will drop people off at the beaches.
6,700 riders boarded buses in Brewster in 2011.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 26
The 22-mile Cape
Cod Rail Trail
(CCRT) provides
passage through
the Town from
Dennis to South
Wellfleet. About
six miles long in
Brewster, it is the
only designated
bike path in town.
This trail is heavily
used by cyclists,
roller-skaters,
roller-bladers,
skate-boarders,
cross-country
skiers, walkers,
and occasionally
equestrians. It is a
major step toward promoting alternative types of transportation. It serves as a primary corridor, allowing
the town to bring bicyclists, horseback riders and walkers to interesting destinations with connector trails.
Thousands of bicyclists, hikers and riders use the trail each year. Nickerson State Park also has an eight-
mile bike path, which connects to the CCRT. Bikes are also ridden along local roads using non-delineated
trails. This is dangerous and illustrates a serious need for local and roadside bike lanes.
The Brewster Bikeways Committee has coordinated an effort to place “Share the Road” signs on all beach
roads throughout town, as well as sticker all Brewster patrol cars with the same bike safety message. A
number of trail directional signs have been erected along the CCRT as well as message board signs along
the Brewster section. The Committee is working with neighboring towns to coordinate activities, creating
the Lower Cape Bikeways Coalition. There is also now a “Bike Brewster” Facebook page.
As part of the Cape Cod Pathways Program, Brewster Pathways has a goal of a walking path from Dennis
to Orleans, with connections to Harwich and "fingers" extending into various parts of town. Pathways
through Nickerson State Park and on to Orleans have been dedicated, as well as a pathway connection
routed through the Punkhorn Parklands. This trail is now complete except for a few connecting sections in
the middle of Brewster. The Committee has been negotiating with private property owners/associations
but has been unable to plot the trail along property edges to connect open space parcels. A seven-mile
section from the Dennis town line to Route 137 has been plotted with GPS and has been marked with
trail signs.
Brewster has many walking trails as well as many informal walkways throughout its many acres of
conservation land. The majority of walkways and pathways in Brewster are useful mainly for recreational
purposes. It is not likely that these pathways will provide alternative means of transportation, because
most of them do not lead to destination points, or conveniently connect with other links or modes of
Cape Cod Rail Trail through Brewster. Source: MA Division of Conservation and Recreation
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 27
transportation. By linking recreational resources and facilities with safe bike or pedestrian paths, a
significant amount of vehicular traffic could be eliminated in the future.
Water Supply System
Drinking water in Brewster comes from the Cape Cod Aquifer, a sole source aquifer, through public wells
owned and operated by the Brewster Water Department, and a number of private wells, owned and
operated by individual homeowners as well as businesses. The Cape Cod Aquifer is comprised of six
lenses, including the Monomoy Lens, the second largest of the Cape Cod groundwater lenses. The
Monomoy Lens is 66 square miles with a maximum elevation of 30 feet, and provides water to the Town
of Brewster, but also to the towns of Dennis, Harwich, Chatham, and Orleans.
The Brewster Water Department currently operates five public water wells connected to its distribution
system, with a sixth that could be developed into a full production well in the future. The first two wells
(well #1, and well #2) initially became operational in 1972, followed by well #3 in 1986. All three of these
wells are located off of Freeman's Way. Well #4, located within the Punkhorn Parklands, went into
operation in 1992. Well #5, also located within the Punkhorn Parklands, was drilled in 2012 with the
Water Department building a pump house and water treatment system to adjust the pH of the water.
Well #6 was approved to be put online and fully operational by DEP in January of 2014.
There are a number of private wells in town, but there is no inventory of properties served by these
private wells.
The Cape Cod aquifer has a high vulnerability to contamination due to the absence of hydrogeologic
barriers (i.e. clay) that can prevent contaminant migration. As such, the town has implemented wellhead
protection regulations and a Groundwater Protection District, as well as the District of Critical Planning
Concern (DCPC) to oversee land use within that District. Brewster’s Zone II areas are dominated by forests
with smaller areas of residential use (7%) and a very small percentage of commercial and industrial land
use (Brewster, 2011). The vast acreage surrounding Brewster’s wellfields also pr ovides for ample passive
recreation areas with miles of trails for walking, hiking, birdwatching, dog walking, biking and horseback-
riding.
Wastewater System
Wastewater discharges in Brewster are mostly from individual onsite septic systems. Brewster is not
served with public sewers or private sewage treatment facilities. The Tri-Town Sewage Treatment Facility
in Orleans used to provide a receiving facility for the disposal of septage from Brewster, Orleans and
Eastham. This facility has now been closed and the buildings have been demolished. It is uncertain
whether a new facility will be built in the future.
Managing the impacts of wastewater-associated pollutants, primarily nutrients, on groundwater and
surface water resources is a major priority in Brewster. To address these impacts, the town has been
involved in a multi-phase Integrated Water Resource Management Plan (IWRMP), which is currently in
Phase III. During Phase II, the town commissioned a comprehensive assessment of wastewater
management alternatives in Brewster. Phase III will include further examination and prioritization of
these alternatives.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 28
2. Long -Term Development Patterns
Zoning
The town has implemented specific land use controls to minimize the impacts of future development on
natural resources. Table 3.8 outlines the town’s current zoning districts, and Map 4 shows the Town’s
zoning districts geographically. Specific overlay and floating districts and bylaws are used by the town to
minimize impacts to natural features and gain protected open space and recreational resources.
Table 3.8. Brewster Zoning Districts and Bylaws
District
Minimum Lot Size
(square feet)
Residential Rural (R-R) 100,000
Residential Low Density (R-L) 60,000
Residential Medium Density (R-M) 60,000
Commercial High Density (C-H) 15,000
Village Business (V-B) 15,000
Industrial (I) 20,000
Overlay Districts
Wetland Conservancy District (WCD) -
Water Quality Protection Bylaw -
Groundwater Protection District (GWPD) -
Flood Plain District (FPD) -
Site Plan Review –replaced Corridor Overlay Protection District (COPD) -
Personal Wireless Services Communications (PWSC) -
Facilities Overlay District (CT) -
Cluster Residential Development -
Natural Resource Protection Design -
Planned Residential Development -
The Wetland Conservancy District (§179-6) is intended to preserve and maintain the surface water and
groundwater that support public water supplies, as well as natural habitats. Lands within the districts
include those that border vegetated wetlands, freshwater banks, land subject to flooding, land under a
freshwater body, land under the ocean, coastal beaches, barrier beaches, rocky intertidal shores, land
under salt ponds, fish runs, coastal dunes, coastal banks, salt marshes and land containing shellfish which
are subject to the jurisdiction of the Wetlands Protection Act, MGL c.131, § 40, as amended. They also
include specific soil types identified in the bylaw. Uses allowed in Wetland Conservancy Districts are those
associated with outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and boating, among other uses that promote
and maintain the natural features in these areas.
The Water Quality Protection Bylaw (Article XI) is an overlay district encompassing the entire Town of
Brewster. The intent of this bylaw is to establish specific requirements for land uses and activities within
those portions of town mapped and identified on the Brewster Zoning Map as the District of Critical
Planning Concern (DCPC) entitled “Brewster Water Protection District.” The DCPC includes areas
designated as Zone I and Zone II as well as the Groundwater Protection District and the Pleasant Bay
Watershed. The bylaw outlines uses that will be exempt from its oversight, but specifically calls out uses
that are prohibited town-wide as well as those prohibited in Zone I, Zone II, and/or the DCPC.
Performance standards are provided.
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
RR
RM
VB
RR
RL
RL
VB
RL VB
CH
RR
I
RR
VB
RMRR
RR
MRD
CH
RL RL
RL
¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Zoning and Overlay Districts Zoning Districts
RR - Residential Rural
RL - Residential Low Density
RM - Residential Medium Density
VB - Village Business
CH - Commercial High Density
I; MRD - Industrial, Municipal Refuse Disposal
Overlay Districts
Natural Resources Protection
Aquifer Protection
Wetland Protection
Floodplain Protection
Adjacent Towns
Map 4
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 30
While not mandatory, cluster development is promoted in Brewster to allow for more flexible residential
subdivision design in order to preserve natural features of a property. Under the Cluster Residential
Development Bylaw (§179-35) any parcel of at least 10 acres in size in the R-R, R-L and R-M Districts may
use cluster development design. The bylaw requires at least 60% of a site be set aside as open space,
which must be permanently protected for passive recreational purposes such as walking or riding tr ails or
wildlife corridors and habitats.
Cluster development that occurs in DCPC Zone II areas and the Pleasant Bay Watershed is encouraged to
follow specified design and layout standards based on the town’s Natural Resource Protection Design
(NRPD) Bylaw (Article XIII). The NRPD Bylaw requires applicants for the subdivision of land to conduct a
natural resource analysis and development impact statement, which assesses how the proposed
development may impact the natural environment, including air quality, water resources, soils, plants and
wildlife. Guidance on conducting the analysis and impact statement is provided in Subsection B.3 of
Section 290-10 of the Brewster Subdivision Rules and Regulations. The NRPD Bylaw also dictates
minimum requirements for dedicated open space acreage, as follows:
• R-R District: minimum of 80%
• R-L District: minimum of 65%
• R-M District: minimum of 65%
Among other performance standards and requirements, the bylaw outlines how the maximum number of
residential units is calculated. The town also provides density bonuses for projects that include, for
example, wastewater treatment for properties outside of the project area that are using Title 5 systems,
providing open space greater than the minimum percentage or if the applicant deeds public access to the
open space portion of the project.
Buildout
As experienced across the region, the 2010 U.S. Census indicated that Brewster’s population was
stagnant, and it had slightly decreased from 2000. Whether declining population is a new trend or a
reaction to the 2008 economic and housing market downturn remains to be seen, but the town must
consider how much new development will actually occur and at what rate. A build-out analysis was
conducted in 2012 for the town as part of the Brewster Integrated Water Resource Management Plan. It
looked at two scenarios: a baseline scenario, which was considered “worse case” and assumed
development would occur under current zoning regulations, and a Smart Growth scenario, which
assumed that development would occur using the town’s cluster development bylaw. The analysis
indicated that at full buildout, between 765 and 800 new housing units could be built on existing vacant
or underutilized parcels and between 330 and 460 acres of open space could be protected. Under the
Smart Growth scenario, more conservation could be achieved around Brewster’s ponds. Table 3-8
summarizes the build-out analysis.
The town does not have updated buildout numbers. The Local Comprehensive Plan process is tasked with
developing that data and it is in the initial stages.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 31
Table 3.9. Summary of Brewster Buildout Analysis
Scenario
Number of New
Residential Units
Acres of Preserved
Open Space
Acres of
Commercial
Development
Acres of Industrial
Development
Baseline Scenario 765 329.5 11.3 49.8
Smart Growth Scenario 801 458.6 11.3 49.8
Source: Town of Brewster Buildout Analysis, prepared by Horsley Witten Group, Inc., 2012
The study also examined the impact of the additional growth and included an analysis of impervious
surface. The findings indicated little difference between the two scenarios. Under the baseline scenario,
impervious cover was estimated to be an additional 129.8 acres, and the Smart Growth scenario could
add an additional 131.4 acres. The use of stormwater best management practices can help mitigate the
impacts.
It is ultimately uncertain as to when the town will experience full buildout considering the slow economic
recovery in the region. While local development interest has increased, it is anticipated the outlook for
future development will fluctuate and the town will have to reevaluate growth expectancy periodically.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 32
SECTION 4. ENVIRONMENTAL
INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS
Long Pond
A. Geology, Soils , and Topography
1. Geology and Topography
Brewster’s landforms are a product of glacial ice, ocean influence, wind, and erosion. Brewster and the
Cape were first formed 17,000 to 21,000 years ago by glacial action near the end of the Wisconsin stage
of the Pleistocene epoch. As ice withdrew from the area of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, it came to
rest where the Cape is presently located, depositing several hundred feet of unconsolidated material
ranging in particle size from clay to boulders. Map 5 shows Brewster’s geologic features.
Most of Brewster is comprised of a glacial deposit designated as the Harwich Outwash Plain. Outwash
plains are deposited by meltwater streams flowing off the front of a receding glacier. The flowing streams
tend to sort sediment deposition by particle size. Coarser grained particles are deposited in faster flowing
environs closer to the melting ice front while finer grained particles are deposited in slower flowing
environs further away. Large blocks of ice left by the retreating glacier settled and were surrounded by
sediments deposited in the outwash streams. Those buried ice blocks finished melting long after
(potentially thousands of years in some cases) the outwash deposits ceased active formation, resulting in
numerous steep-sided kettle-holes as the surrounding sediments collapsed into the voids left by the
melting ice block. Where those kettle-holes are deep enough to intersect the water table, kettle-hole
ponds were formed.
Bakers Pond
Cobbs Pond Blueberry
Pond
Cliff Pond Little
Cliff
Pond
Smith Pond
Sheep
Pond
Lower
Mill Pond
Griffiths
Pond
Canoe Pond
Long Pond Greenland
Pond
Mill
PondSmalls
Pond
Black Pond Grassy
PondSlough Pond
Pine Pond
Elbow Pond
Flax
Pond
Higgins
Pond
Upper
Mill Pond
Seymour
Pond
Walkers Pond
Depot StreetFinlay
Road
Orl
e
an
sR
o
a
dAirline RoadCranberryHighwayChurch
Street Route28Millstone RoadTonset
Road
Scargo
Hill Roa
d LowerRoadEldredge
Parkway
South Orleans RoadWestRoadLocustRoadTraining Field RoadFoster
Road
LowerRoadHarwich
Road
SouthOrleans RoadRussellsPathSatucke
tRoadStony Brook Road
Pleasan
t
BayRoadOldBassRiver RoadAirline RoadPleasant LakeAvenueSouthOrleansRoadCrowell
s
B
o
g
R
o
a
d
Millsto
n
e
Road WestRoad
Foster
RoadCrowellRoadBarley
Neck
RoadMeetinghouseRoad
Lower R
o
a
d Ramp-rt6WbToRt 6AMayf
a
i
r
R
o
a
d BridgeStreetQueen Anne Road
Ramp-rt 6
Wb To Rt
124
MainSt
r
e
et
Hokum
Rock
Road
Ramp-rt124ToRt6 EbMid-capeHighwayRamp-rt6AToRt 6 EbBob
Crowell
Road A PercieNewcombRoadCross
Road
SloughRoadGreat O
a
k
Road
Grea
t
F
ie
lds
RoadMonument RoadOld
Colony
Way
Route137Long Pond
R
o
a
d LotsHollowRoadLong Pon
d
D
r
i
v
e
Brewste
r
Cross
Road
Main Street
OakStreetOld
C
h
a
t
h
a
m
R
o
a
d Harwich RoadRamp-rt
6A To
Rt 6 Eb
Underpass RoadQu
a
n
s
e
t
R
o
a
d
East West Dennis RoadPoint OfRocks RoadPleasant Bay
R
o
a
dRun Hill RoadPondRo
a
d
CranberryHighwa
y
Old Comers Ro
a
dSnowRoadOrleans
R
oa
d
Sesuit Nec
k
R
o
a
d
Route 28-HeadOf The Bay RoadRed Top RoadPainesCreekRoadBay Road
Orleans
Road
Setucke
t
R
o
a
d
Mid-cape Highway
Orleans
Road
Satuck
et
R
o
a
d
Hokum
R
o
c
k
R
o
a
d HerringBrookWay
TubmanR
o
a
d
Tar
K
i
l
n
R
o
a
d
Free
m
a
n
s
W
a
y
Namequoit
Road
Harwich RoadOld
Chatham
Road
Hopkins
Lane
Mid Cape
H
i
g
h
w
a
y
Mid Cap
e
H
i
g
h
w
a
y
Kendri
c
k
R
o
a
d
Areys L
a
n
e
Auston Road
Ramp-rt
6
Wb ToRt
137
Ra
m
p
-
r
t
6E
b
T
o
Rt 1
2
4 Church StreetRamp-rt137ToRt 6 Eb¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Soils and Hydrologic Soil Group
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Base Map Features
Great Pond
Brewster
Adjacent Towns
Postglacial Deposits
Beach and Dune Deposits
Cranberry Bog
Swamp and Marsh Deposits
Artificial Fill
Glacial Stratified Deposits
Coarse
Glaciolacustrine Fine
Thin Till
Map 5
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 34
In contrast to the relatively flat outwash plain areas, the higher land (up to 141 feet above mean sea
level) in the northwestern part of town (north of the Mill Ponds and along Stony Brook) is characterized
by less well sorted sediments of varying particle sizes, including many boulders. The Mass GIS mapping
shown on Map 5 does not differentiate between the varied topography of the Stony Brook area and the
more consistent deposits of the Harwich Outwash Plain; they are both simply classified as Sand and
Gravel deposits. However, more detailed geologic mapping conducted by the USGS has depicted this
area, originally, as part of the Sandwich Moraine (Oldale, 1969) or, more recently, as ice contact deposits
(LeBlanc et al, 1986). End moraines are deposited at
the terminus of an advancing ice front, both by
thrusting and bulldozing of material up in front of
the ice, and by direct deposit of material entrained
in the ice as the ice melts away. Ice contact deposits
also originate near the edge of an ice sheet as the
ice differentially melts dropping its varied sediment
load around stagnant blocks of resistant ice
surviving for a period after the larger ice sheet has
receded away. While moraine and ice contact
deposits are of different origin, they are both
characterized by relatively steep and varied
topography with a wide range of particle sizes and
abundant boulders. These characteristics make for
interesting and varied open space uses, in contrast
to the flatter and more consistent outwash plain
areas.
Along the immediate northern (Cape Cod Bay) shore of Brewster are fine-grained deposits of glacio-
lacustrine (wind-blown) origin. After the ice-contact deposits and the outwash deposits were laid down,
the ice front had receded to a position well north of the Cape and melt water from that continually
receding ice was temporarily trapped by the glacial deposits of the Cape to form a glacial lake in roughly
the current position of Cape Cod Bay. The low energy environment of the lake allowed finer silt and clay
sized particles to settle out, creating the lacustrine deposits currently exposed along Brewster’s northern
shoreline. Wind driven dune deposits and marshlands comprise the most-recent, post-glacial sediment
deposits in town.
The geologic history of Brewster was once thought to be rather simple but is today seen as a complex set
of interactions which are not yet fully understood. For purposes of open space planning, it is sufficient to
understand that most of Brewster is composed of sandy glacial deposits, with limited areas of more
varied topography and pockets of wetlands, bogs, and clay. This glacial past explains its topography.
Ultimately, it also explains Brewster's soils, vegetation, wildlife, visual beauty, and basic character.
2. Soils
Soil types for the Town of Brewster have been mapped and described by the federal Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) in the Soil Survey of Barnstable County. Maps and interpretative data
indicating the limitations of individual soils for different land uses such as on-site sewage disposal,
Whale Rock at Windmill Village is an example of
a large glacial erratic. Photo credit: Brewster
Conservation Trust
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 35
homesites, and woodlands, are available for review through the NRCS or through the Conservation
Commission office in Brewster Town Hall.
Hydrologic Soil Group and Surface Runoff
Hydrologic soil groups are based on estimates of runoff potential. Soils are assigned to one of four groups
according to the rate of water infiltration when the soils are not protected by vegetation, are thoroughly
wet, and receive precipitation from long-duration storms. The estimates are used in land use planning
that involves engineering considerations.
The Four Hydrologic Soil Groups are:
Group A. Soils having a high infiltration rate (low runoff potential) when thoroughly wet. These
consist mainly of deep, well drained to excessively drained sands or gravelly sands. These soils have a
high rate of water transmission.
Group B. Soils having a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of
moderately deep or deep, moderately well drained or well drained soils that have moderately fine
texture to moderately coarse texture. These soils have a moderate rate of water transmission.
Group C. Soils having a slow infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of soils having
a layer that impedes the downward movement of water or soils of moderately fine texture or fine
texture. These soils have a slow rate of water transmission.
Group D. Soils having a very slow infiltration rate (high runoff potential) when thoroughly wet. These
consist chiefly of clays that have a high shrink-swell potential, soils that have a high water table, soils
that have a claypan or clay layer at or near the surface, and soils that are shallow over nearly
impervious material. These soils have a very slow rate of water transmission.
If a soil is assigned to a dual hydrologic group (A/D, B/D, or C/D), the first letter is for drained areas and
the second is for undrained areas. Surface runoff refers to the loss of water from an area by flow over the
land surface. Surface runoff classes are based on slope, climate, and vegetative cover. The concept
indicates relative runoff for very specific conditions. It is assumed that the surface of the soil is bare and
that the retention of surface water resulting from irregularities in the ground surface is minimal. The
classes are negligible, very low, low, medium, high, and very high.
Map 6 shows hydric soil classifications in Brewster. A single soil association, the Carver (A) soil, comprises
more than 75% of the town's soils. The most important aspect of Brewster's Carver soils is their
permeability. The loose coarse lower layers act as a vast reservoir for underground water replenished by
precipitation, and town well tests indicate large amounts of drinkable water in both the eastern and
western sectors of Brewster. However, the permeability that allows between 15 and 20 inches of water
per year to recharge the groundwater system also allows septage, landfill leachate, contaminated road
runoff and other pollutants, such as oil or gas from leaking underground storage tanks, to quickly flow
through the soil into the drinking water supply. Wet soils, low permeability soils, wetlands and surface
waters make up the other 25% of the soils of the town, which means that 25% of Brewster is unsuitable
for development just on the basis of soil type. However, while these soils and water areas preclude or
should preclude development, they provide drinking water through groundwater recharge, natural
habitat of major importance, and widely used recreational opportunities.
Bakers Pond
Cobbs Pond Blueberry
Pond
Cliff Pond Little
Cliff
Pond
Smith Pond
Sheep
Pond
Lower
Mill Pond
Griffiths
Pond
Canoe Pond
Long Pond Greenland
Pond
Mill
PondSmalls
Pond
Black Pond Grassy
PondSlough Pond
Pine Pond
Elbow Pond
Flax
Pond
Higgins
Pond
Upper
Mill Pond
Seymour
Pond
Walkers Pond
Depot StreetFinlay
Road
Orl
e
an
sR
o
a
dAirline RoadCranberryHighwayChurch
Street Route28Millstone RoadTonset
Road
Scargo
Hill Roa
d LowerRoadEldredge
Parkway
South Orleans RoadWestRoadLocustRoadTraining Field RoadFoster
Road
LowerRoadHarwich
Road
SouthOrleans RoadRussellsPathSatucke
tRoadStony Brook Road
Pleasan
t
BayRoadOldBassRiver RoadAirline RoadPleasant LakeAvenueSouthOrleansRoadCrowell
s
B
o
g
R
o
a
d
Millsto
n
e
Road WestRoad
Foster
RoadCrowellRoadBarley
Neck
RoadMeetinghouseRoad
Lower R
o
a
d Ramp-rt6WbToRt 6AMayf
a
i
r
R
o
a
d BridgeStreetQueen Anne Road
Ramp-rt 6
Wb To Rt
124
MainSt
r
e
et
Hokum
Rock
Road
Ramp-rt124ToRt6 EbMid-capeHighwayRamp-rt6AToRt 6 EbBob
Crowell
Road A PercieNewcombRoadCross
Road
SloughRoadGreat O
a
k
Road
Grea
t
F
ie
lds
RoadMonument RoadOld
Colony
Way
Route137Long Pond
R
o
a
d LotsHollowRoadLong Pon
d
D
r
i
v
e
Brewste
r
Cross
Road
Main Street
OakStreetOld
C
h
a
t
h
a
m
R
o
a
d Harwich RoadRamp-rt
6A To
Rt 6 Eb
Underpass RoadQu
a
n
s
e
t
R
o
a
d
East West Dennis RoadPoint OfRocks RoadPleasant Bay
R
o
a
dRun Hill RoadPondRo
a
d
CranberryHighwa
y
Old Comers Ro
a
dSnowRoadOrleans
R
oa
d
Sesuit Nec
k
R
o
a
d
Route 28-HeadOf The Bay RoadRed Top RoadPainesCreekRoadBay Road
Orleans
Road
Setucke
t
R
o
a
d
Mid-cape Highway
Orleans
Road
Satuck
et
R
o
a
d
Hokum
R
o
c
k
R
o
a
d HerringBrookWay
TubmanR
o
a
d
Tar
K
i
l
n
R
o
a
d
Free
m
a
n
s
W
a
y
Namequoit
Road
Harwich RoadOld
Chatham
Road
Hopkins
Lane
Mid Cape
H
i
g
h
w
a
y
Mid Cap
e
H
i
g
h
w
a
y
Kendri
c
k
R
o
a
d
Areys L
a
n
e
Auston Road
Ramp-rt
6
Wb ToRt
137
Ra
m
p
-
r
t
6E
b
T
o
Rt 1
2
4 Church StreetRamp-rt137ToRt 6 Eb¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Soils and Hydrologic Soil Group
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Hydrologic Soil Group definitions from NRCS:
Group A. Soils having a high infiltration rate (low runoff potential) when thoroughly wet. These consist mainly of deep, well drained to excessively
drained sands or gravelly sands. These soils have a high rate of water transmission.
Group B. Soils having a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of moderately deep or deep, moderately well
drained or well drained soils that have moderately fine texture to moderately coarse texture. These soils have a moderate rate of water
transmission.
Group C. Soils having a slow infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of soils having a layer that impedes the downward
movement of water or soils of moderately fine texture or fine texture. These soils have a slow rate of water transmission.
Group D. Soils having a very slow infiltration rate (high runoff potential) when thoroughly wet. These consist chiefly of clays that have a high
shrink-swell potential, soils that have a high water table, soils that have a claypan or clay layer at or near the surface, and soils that are shallow
over nearly impervious material. These soils have a very slow rate of water transmission.
If a soil is assigned to a dual hydrologic group (A/D, B/D, or C/D), the first letter is for drained areas and the second is for undrained areas.
Hydrologic Soil Group
A
A/D
B
B/D
C
C/D
D
Map 6
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 37
A second major soil type, the Plymouth-Barnstable-Nantucket-Barnstable (A-A-B-A), is also excessively
drained and well-drained, sandy, loamy soil. Like Carver, these soils can present severe problems with
septic fields, since they allow the effluent to percolate into the groundwater without being sufficiently
filtered.
A third type, the Plymouth-East Chop-Carver-Boxford Soil Complex (A-A-A-C/D) again, is excessively well-
drained, however these sandy soils have the addition of clay. There are apt to be pockets of perched
water where these soils form. These soil areas have previously been considered unsuitable for building
and for septic systems. However, with the decreasing availability of developable parcels, many previously
unwanted lots, are now getting a closer look.
Another soil type in Brewster can be classified as wetland/bog, Freetown Sanded Muck (A/D), comprising
approximately 7% of the town. These soils can be used successfully for cranberry bogs, and there are
several important wildlife habitat areas associated with these soils.
The Ipswich-Pawcatuck-Matunuck Soil Complex (A/D) is the major soil type found in boggy areas near the
shore. The soils are poorly drained peats formed in marine and sandy deposits. There is also a small
amount of Agawam soils (approximately 3% of town) which, while important for certain wildlife and plant
species, are again unsuitable for development because these soils are too wet or impermeable for proper
septic tank functioning.
Almost all of this “wet” land is unsuitable for residential, commercial or industrial use because of wetness
and instability. Yet, as building pressure increases, it is more difficult to keep people from building in
these totally inappropriate, marginal areas. In some instances "bog view" and "marsh view" are now being
sold as special attributes of parcels that might best be left undeveloped. Any natural feature is perceived
by a growing number of people as a commodity to be sold to the highest bidder, disassociated from its
natural functions or its true long-term value to the community.
According to NRCS criteria, 496 acres (about 3%) of the town's land area are classified as prime
agricultural soils. Prime agricultural soils are mainly concentrated in the north / northwestern portion of
Brewster. Although there are a few active agricultural lands located on prime agricultural soils, most
existing active agricultural areas are not (APCC, 2011).
3. L andscape Character
Quiet beauty, rural charm and quaint New England are some of the phrases used to characterize
Brewster. They embody the key qualities described by residents in a 1991 Local Comprehensive Plan
Committee Survey. Brewster’s greatest assets are its rural character, bay beaches, Route 6A, open space
and ponds.
One of the many charms of Brewster is its access to its great beaches on Cape Cod Bay. These are
especially inviting to parents with small children, because of the extraordinary features exposed at low
tide. Brewster has enormous sand flats that extend at least a mile into the Bay. People of all ages enjoy
“walking the flats.” This terrain is also ideal for shellfishing.
Off-season, Route 6A is a quiet, pleasant drive between Dennis and Orleans. It is lined with the homes of
sea captains and other historic structures. From west to east there are many features to visit along the
way. The spectacular scenic vista of Cape Cod Bay at the Drummer Boy Park is also the site of an historic
Windmill, the Harris Black House and a Blacksmith Shop. Traveling east, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 38
History is then on the north side of the street. A short drive south off 6A, taking Stony Br ook Road to Run
Hill Road, connects one with The Punkhorn Parklands, over 800 acres of ponds, woodlands and bogs.
Continuing east on 6A one passes numerous sea captains’ homes which have been brought back to their
original beauty and charm, at least two early Town Hall buildings, and 11 chances to take a road leading
to the north to access a town beach. On the eastern edge of town, Ocean Edge mansion is seen set far
back off the north side of the road. Formerly La Salette Seminary, these buildings now com prise the
Ocean Edge Conference Center. Further on, Nickerson State Park is seen on both sides of the road, with
beaches and marshes on the Bay side and forests, trails and ponds on the south side of 6A.
There is no town center per se, unless it is the Old General Store, situated approximately where Route
124 meets Route 6A. Early morning coffee, the newspaper and conversation concerning the latest
happenings are all available to residents and visitors alike.
B. Water Resources
1. Watersheds
The Town of Brewster is within the Cape Cod Watershed. This watershed is a coastal river drainage area
lacking the characteristic, large mainstream rivers and associated tributary systems common to the other
watersheds of Massachusetts. Cape Cod coastal embayment systems are fed by smaller freshwater and
estuarine recharge areas comprising tidal creek and marsh systems. The Town of Brewster encompasses
six embayment watersheds, which it shares with neighboring jurisdictions. These include the Cape Cod
Bay, Herring River, Namskaket Creek, Pleasant Bay, Quivett Creek, and Stony Brook watersheds. Brewster
also contains a very small portion of the Bass River watershed. Map 7 shows these watershed boundaries
as well as Brewster’s major water resources. The Pleasant Bay, Herring River and Bass River Watersheds
have recently been assessed a part of the Massachusetts Estuaries Project for the restoration and
protection of estuarine resources. The Pleasant Bay Watershed has been included in Brewster’s Water
Resources bylaw, while the Herring River and Bass River Watersheds have not. In Brewster, much of the
focus has been on the Pleasant Bay watershed, as Brewster’s nitrogen contribution is far greater to
Pleasant Bay than it is to Herring River or Bass River.
Although Brewster encompasses just a small
portion of shoreline on Pleasant Bay, a
portion of the watershed draining to the bay
is within the town. Excessive nitrogen
originating primarily from on-site
wastewater disposal systems within the
Bay’s watershed has led to a degradation of
Pleasant Bay’s water quality. Some of the
impacts of excessive nitrogen loading
include:
• Loss of eelgrass beds, which are
critical habitats for
macroinvertebrates and fish
Inlet into Pleasant Bay, Nauset Beach, Cape Cod National
Seashore, Chatham. Photo credit: Karen Morgan, USGS
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
Well #3
Well #6
Well #2
Well #5
Well #4
Well #1
Namskaket
Creek
Pleasant Bay
Little
Namskaket
Creek
Quivett Creek
Brewster
Cape Cod Bay
Herring River
Bass River
¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Public Water Resources and Protection Areas Water Tower
DEP Public Water Well
Brewster Zone II
Other Town Zone II
District of Critical Planning Concern
Watershed (with Name)
Adjacent Town
Map 7
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 40
• Undesirable increases in macro algae, which are much less beneficial than eelgrass
• Periodic extreme decreases in dissolved oxygen concentrations that threaten aquatic life
• Reductions in the diversity of benthic animal populations
• Periodic algae blooms
In addition, as a result of these environmental
impacts, commercial and recreational uses of the
Pleasant Bay System coastal waters could be
greatly reduced or cease altogether (EEA, 2007).
With proper management of nitrogen inputs these
trends can be reversed. The Town of Brewster is
one of four towns (including Chatham, Harwich and
Orleans) within the Pleasant Bay Watershed. These
towns have formed the Pleasant Bay Alliance, a
municipal organization that coordinates the
resource management plan for the watershed,
including the designated Pleasant Bay Area of
Critical Environmental Concern. The Alliance’s
projects, programs and studies promote healthy
natural resources and safe public access
throughout Pleasant Bay.
Watershed Nutrient Management
Each Alliance member town has developed a plan to address its share of responsibility for reducing
nitrogen in Pleasant Bay. The Alliance has compiled the effect of the four town plans in the Pleasant Bay
Targeted Watershed Management Plan (2018). The watershed plan includes a mix of traditional nitrogen
removal actions (e.g., sewering), and non-traditional methods (e.g., shellfish aquaculture.) Chatham and
Harwich are proposing to install sewers and share use of Chatham’s treatment plant. Orleans is pursuing
a combination of sewering around Meetinghouse Pond, exploring the nitrogen removal capacity of
shellfish aquaculture in Lonnie’s Pond, and testing the efficacy of permeable reactive barriers. Brewster is
maximizing fertilizer reductions at its golf course and exploring the potential for nitrogen remov ing septic
systems. The regional approach allows the towns to work together to pursue efficiencies and cost savings
through coordinated actions.
In 2018, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) issued the Pleasant Bay
Watershed Permit, the first permit of its kind to reduce nitrogen loads in a watershed shared by multiple
towns. The permit gives each Alliance town a mix of authorizations and incentives needed to implement
the nitrogen removal strategies outlined in the watershed plan. The 20-year permit is managed in five-
year increments, with nitrogen reduction targets for each town to meet along the way. The Alliance
develops annual progress reports required by MassDEP and the Cape Cod Commission to demonstrate
that nitrogen reduction requirements are on track. The process is flexible and allows towns to adapt if
targeted strategies end up performing better or not as well as predicted.
Pleasant Bay Alliance
The Pleasant Bay Alliance is an organization of the
Towns of Brewster, Chatham, Orleans, and Harwich.
Formed through an inter-municipal agreement, the
Alliance is charged with implementing the Pleasant Bay
Resource Management Plan. The Plan encompasses
the Pleasant Bay Area of Critical Environmental
Concern (ACEC) and Pleasant Bay watershed. The
Alliance develops and distributes public policy
recommendations, technical studies and public
information/educational materials, all available on the
Alliance website, www.pleasantbay.org. Brewster’s
Natural Resources Director and Town Planner are
appointed by the Select Board to represent the Town
on the Alliance’s Steering Committee.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 41
To help implement the work called for under the watershed permit, the Alliance obtained $250,000 from
the Southeast New England Estuaries Project (SNEP), a grant program sponsored by US EPA and Restore
America’s Estuaries. Under the grant the Alliance and member towns are: 1) exploring the potential for
expanded use of nitrogen removing septic systems; 2) monitoring the effectiveness of shellfish
aquaculture for nitrogen removal; 3) developing a nitrogen trading demonstration project that will allow
towns to use financial transactions to compensate for nitrogen removal; and 4) updating the ecological
model that is used to track and assess nitrogen concentrations and removal requirements in the Pleasant
Bay system.
Working with the towns to achieve the nitrogen removal targets outlined in the Targeted Watershed
Management Plan and watershed permit will continue to be a high priority for the Alliance.
Monitoring
Working with volunteers and technical support from the four member towns, the Alliance coordinates
the Pleasant Bay Water Quality Monitoring program. Trained volunteers collected samples at bay-wide
sites achieving a 90% collection rate. The program is operated in accordance with a Quality Assurance
Project Plan (QAPP) approved by MassDEP and adheres to protocols for volunteer training, sample
custody, and laboratory analysis. The precise number of monitoring stations has been adjusted over the
past two decades based on refinement of data needs. Currently, there are twenty-five stations actively
monitored.
Data collected by the water quality monitoring program were incorporated in modeling of Pleasant Bay
undertaken by the Massachusetts Estuaries Project (MEP). The MEP analysis detailed in the 2006
Technical Report documented signs of nutrient-related stress throughout the system and found that
thirteen of seventeen subembayments exhibited some level of impaired or degraded habitat health due
to overloading of nitrogen. The report also documented excessively low dissolved oxygen levels in some
subembayments such as Muddy Creek, Paw Wah Pond, Lonnie’s Pond, Areys’ Pond, Quanset Pond and
Meetinghouse Pond, where surrounding land is densely developed and tidal flushing is restricted. The
MEP report provided the basis for establishing total nitrogen Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for
nineteen subembayments in Pleasant Bay. The TMDLs provide the nutrient targets for local and regional
nutrient management planning.
In coordination with Dr. Graham Giese and the Center for Coastal Studies of Provincetown, the Alliance
also supports regular tide gauge monitoring throughout the Pleasant Bay system.
Coastal Resi lience
The Alliance coordinates inter-municipal efforts related to coastal vulnerability and resiliency in Pleasant
Bay. The Alliance’s work in the area of coastal vulnerability and resiliency builds on extensive previous
technical studies and monitoring undertaken by the Alliance over more than a decade, including: 137
Years of Shoreline Change in Pleasant Bay 1868-2005 (Borrelli, 2005); A Geomorphological Analysis of
Nauset Beach/Pleasant Bay/Chatham Harbor For the Purpose of Estimating Future Configurations and
Conditions (Giese et al, 2010); Analysis of Tide Data from Meetinghouse Pond, Chatham fish Pier and
Boston: With Application to Management (Giese, 2012); Sea Level Rise: Assessment of Impacts on Nauset
Barrier Beach and Pleasant Bay (CCS, 2017); Progress Report on Collection and Analysis of Tidal Data from
Boston Harbor, Meetinghouse Pond, Chatham Fish Pier and Outermost Harbor: June 2016 – June, 2017
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 42
(Giese and Legere, 2017); These studies have led to the development of policy guidance submitted to the
member towns, including permitting guidelines for docks, piers and walkways, and the recently released
Guidelines for Managing Erosion in Pleasant Bay (Pleasant Bay Alliance, 2018).
The Alliance obtained a $70,050 FY2020 coastal resilience grant from Massachusetts Coastal Zone
Management. The grant funded a project to help Salt Marsh resources in Pleasant Bay keep up with sea
level rise. The project includes an assessment of Salt Marsh vulnerability and living shoreline suitability in
Pleasant Bay. The Alliance will use this assessment to develop and permit living shoreline pilot projects on
public properties to manage erosion while sustaining natural coastal processes. (Carol Ridley, Director
PBA)
2. S urface Waters: Freshwater Lakes and Ponds
Freshwater ponds are a major defining feature of Brewster. Over 10% (or over 2,000 acres) of the town's
surface area is covered by freshwater ponds providing Brewster with the largest pond area on the Cape.
The Town of Brewster has approximately 80 ponds; of these ponds, 53 of them are greater than one acre
and 28 of them are greater than 10 acres. The 743-acre Long Pond shared with Harwich is the Cape's
largest, while Cliff Pond with a depth of 84 feet is the deepest. In recent years, local concerns about the
water quality of Brewster’s ponds have often become focused by algal blooms, fish kills, and concerns
related to the impacts from population growth.
Nine major freshwater ponds are interconnected in the Stony Brook watershed, which ultimately
discharges into Cape Cod Bay at the mouth of Paine’s Creek. These ponds include Elbow, Slough, Pine,
Walkers, Smith, Canoe, Upper Mill, Lower Mill, and Schoolhouse Ponds. This hydraulic system is the core
of the over 800-acre Punkhorn Parklands.
Brewster's ponds generally lie within the sand and gravel of the Harwich Outwash plain. Groundwater
flow is enhanced by the highly permeable sand and gravel deposits and plays a dominant role in all of the
major pond systems. The influence of surface water runoff to the ponds is minimal due to the ponds’
general lack of tributary streams and the soil composition of their watersheds. Wave action has
winnowed the sand from much of the
pond shorelines, leaving an armor of
coarse gravel and cobbles. Very little fine-
grained sediment is present except where
organic matter has concentrated in the
deeper areas of the ponds.
About 14 ponds are regularly stocked with
fish by the Massachusetts Division of Fish
and Wildlife and at least 11 ponds support
public swimming. Ten ponds are
sufficiently deep to have the potential to
support cold-water fish (e.g. Long,
Seymour, Sheep, and Slough Ponds).
Ponds in the Stony Brook and Herring
River watersheds provide essential habitat
for anadromous fish like alewife and Flax Pond. Photo credit: John Phelan
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 43
blueback herring, which migrate from salt to freshwater to spawn, and catadromous fish like eels that
spawn in salt water and live in freshwater.
Several complex man-made hydrologic networks consisting of many miles of ditches and intermittent
streams course through Brewster and are maintained by the Barnstable County Mosquito Control
Commission. The Consodine Ditch system was developed to remove surface water from low-lying
wetlands and acts as a flood relief system, which discharges water at Breakwater Beach. A second
extensive ditch network flows through the Stony Brook watershed and discharges through Freemans
Pond and Paine’s Creek.
Some of Brewster’s ponds are coastal plain ponds, which are freshwater bodies that occupy glacially
formed depressions in the sandy soil found on Cape Cod. The water in the ponds fluctuates seasonally in
response to a direct link with the area's water table. This seasonal fluctuation allows a diverse pond shore
plant community to flourish. The dry years keep aquatic plants from establishing a permanent colony and
the wet years keep the upland plants from taking over. Coastal plain pond shore communities often take
root in zones along the shoreline depending on the plant's ability to tolerate wet conditions. Waters tend
to be nutrient poor and acidic. It is not uncommon to find some of the more common marsh emergents
such as rushes and sedges in the mix of plants. But it must be remembered that along with more common
varieties of plants there are globally rare plants such as the Plymouth Gentian.
Recreational Access to Ponds
Brewster's ponds are enjoyed for a wide
number of recreational uses, such as fishing,
boating, sunbathing, swimming, and ice-
skating. Due to its large size (743 acres) Long
Pond is a popular ice-fishing location in the
winter. MA fishing licenses are required on all
ponds. All of Brewster's ponds have a three-
horsepower propulsion limit except Long, Cliff,
and Flax Ponds where there are no power
limitations.
The majority of Brewster's ponds lack official
public landings; however, many have informal
access. Formal Public Freshwater
Beaches/Landings are located as follows:
• Long Pond – Boat ramp and beach
• Slough Pond
• Upper Mill Pond – Accessible viewing platform and boat ramp
• Sheep Pond – Accessible viewing platform, boat ramp and beach
• Schoolhouse Pond – Accessible fishing dock and car-top boat launch, winter ice skating
The most active of the public landings is the town beach and boat launching facility at Long Pond and the
State launching ramp and town beach at Fisherman's Landing on Sheep Pond. Cliff Pond and Flax Pond in
Nickerson State Park have swimming beaches with lifeguards as does Long Pond. Seymour Pond has a
Boat ramp on Long Pond.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 44
public beach shared with Harwich and there is a small public swimming access to Pine Pond. There is
substantial town frontage on Bakers Pond, however access is difficult and there is no beach on the
Brewster side, only in Orleans.
Town public boat ramps exist at Walkers, Long, Upper Mill and Sheep Ponds. Brewster's sailing program
established in 1997 is located at Upper Mill Landing. Car top boat launching facilities were also
constructed at Slough and Schoolhouse Ponds. Handicapped access viewing platforms are found at
Sheep, Upper Mill and Schoolhouse Ponds. The Schoolhouse Pond platform doubles as a fishing dock.
Pond Water Quality
Many of the ponds in Brewster today have compromised water quality due to excessive loadings of
phosphorous, the nutrient of concern that controls the level of excess plant and algae growth, a process
known as eutrophication. Eutrophication can deplete oxygen levels, cause fish kills and noxious odors,
and reduce water column visibility. At the end of the algal growing season, the algae die off and settle on
the pond bottom causing sediment buildup. This can impact organisms living on the pond bottom.
Common sources of phosphorus include phosphate-containing cleaners or detergents, human and animal
waste, vehicle exhaust deposits, and fertilizers from lawns, golf courses, and agriculture (HW, 2013).
Brewster has been conducting environmental monitoring of its ponds under the auspices of the
Department of Natural Resources for over 20 years (since 1987). Brewster’s ponds had been monitored
regularly by the Cape Cod Pond and Lake
Stewardship (PALS) program. The PALS program
had monitored ponds and lakes across Cape Cod,
including 29 ponds in Brewster. Brewster now
runs their own PALS/pond monitoring program.
According to the PALS data, many of Brewster’s
ponds are not meeting water quality standards
for dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll a and nutrients
(phosphorous and nitrogen) (SMAST, CCC, 2009).
These data are consistent with observed
conditions, which include regular algal blooms at
many of Brewster’s ponds. Table 4.1 summarizes
the ponds in Brewster that were listed on the
State’s 2012 Impaired Waters (303(d)) List.
Table 4.1. Brewster’s Impaired Freshwater Ponds
Pond Pollutant(s) of Concern
Lower Mill Pond Chlorophyll-a; Excess algal growth; Phosphorous (total); Secchi disk
transparency; Turbidity
Long Pond Oxygen, dissolved
Sheep Pond Mercury in fish tissue
Walkers Pond Excess algal growth; Phosphorous (total); Secchi disk transparency; Turbidity
Baker’s Pond Mercury in fish tissue
Lower Mill Pond
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 45
Brewster is using an aquatic weed harvester to remove aquatic plants in an effort to lessen the
phosphorus impairment in Walkers Pond. Starting last year, the effort has expanded to Elbow Pond with
assistance from the Brewster Ponds Coalition and the Friends of Elbow Pond. In fall of 2019 an alum
treatment was complete on Upper Mill Pond as a part of the treatment strategy for the Mill Ponds
complex (Walkers, Upper, Lower Mill Ponds).
The Cape Cod Commission has mapped the watersheds of 18 of Brewster’s Ponds. Regulations targeted
toward development within these watersheds could help control sources of phosphorous, including the
fertilizer and pesticide use, stormwater runoff, and septic systems. Through its Integrated Water
Resource Management Plan, the town is looking into implementing local regulations, such as provisions
that require more stringent septic system setbacks to ponds, in order to better manage phosphorous
sources. Managing phosphorous loading to Brewster’s ponds will enhance the recreational capacity of
these resources by allowing them to be used for boating, swimming, fishing and other activities.
3. Marine Surface Waters
Marine resources in Brewster exist primarily on the north shore, along Cape Cod Bay. There is a small
section of Brewster bordering Pleasant Bay (approximately 40 feet of frontage) to the south but there is
no landing there. There are no large estuaries in Brewster though there are some substantial creeks
including Paine's, Quivett and Namskaket. At low tide, Brewster’s beaches become a part of expansive
tidal flats that extend ¾ of a mile out into Cape Cod Bay. These extensive flats provide for many hours of
exploration fun.
Marine Surface Waters Access
Ten saltwater beaches are located along Cape Cod Bay. Each is accessible from a street connecting to
Main Street (Route 6A) with the exception of Wings Island Beach, which is reached by trail. These provide
miles of swimming, sunbathing, beach strolling, fishing, and boating access. Beach sticker revenues
contributed $333,665 to the Brewster economy in fiscal year 2019. Brewster’s saltwater
beaches/landings (west to east) include:
• Wings Island Beach - Behind the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, off John Wing Trail
• Paine’s Creek Beach
• Mant’s Landing Beach
• Saint’s Landing Beach
• Breakwater Landing
• Breakwater Beach
• Point of Rocks Landing Beach
• Ellis Landing Beach
• Spruce Hill Beach – Reached by following path/boardwalk behind building to stairway to beach
• Linnell Landing Beach
• Crosby Landing Beach -Connects with Nickerson State Park land/ Beach/Namskaket Creek &
Saltmarsh
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 46
Crosby Land Beach. Photo credit: Kelly Moore
Marine Surface Water Quality
Water quality at eight of Brewster’s most popular bathing beaches (Breakwater, Crosby Landing, Ellis
Landing, Linnell Landing, Mant’s, Paine’s Creek, Point of Rocks, and Saints Landing) is monitored
throughout the summer by the Barnstable County Department of Health and the Environment. These
beaches are monitored for enterococci bacteria, which has proven to be the most useful bacterial
indicator for determining the extent of fecal contamination in marine recreational waters. The beaches
generally have excellent water quality.
As highlighted earlier in this Plan, water quality in Pleasant Bay has been degraded from excessive
nitrogen loading within its watershed, a portion of which is in Brewster. As fertilizers account for 16% of
the watershed nutrient load in Pleasant Bay, The Pleasant Bay Alliance recently created a Fertilizer
Management Plan that provides strategies with the potential to reduce overall controllable nitrogen by
up to 7.2%. The town has also developed an Integrated Resource Management Plan with specific action
items to reduce nitrogen loading to Pleasant Bay, such as regulatory controls on septic systems and
stormwater management.
Some of the creeks and rivers in Brewster have also demonstrated poor water quality (Table 4.2). The
town is looking at ways to manage these surface water resources as well.
Table 4.2. Brewster's Impaired Marine Surface Waters
Water body Pollutants of concern
Pleasant Bay Nitrogen
Quivett Creek Fecal coliform
Namskaket Creek Fecal coliform
Herring River1 Fecal coliform
Bass River1 Estuarine bioassessments, Fecal coliform
1 River not in Brewster, but a portion of the contributing watershed area is within the town boundary.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 47
4. Aquifer Recharge Areas
In general terms, the groundwater system can be described as the saturated zone of water-bearing glacial
deposits beneath the land surface. The upper surface of this zone is known as the water table. In cross-
section, the groundwater body is shaped like a lens, with the highest elevations of the water table being
found along the groundwater divide and flowing towards the lower elevations near the town’s shores and
beaches.
The town’s groundwater system, like the whole of Cape Cod, is replenished entirely by precipitation. The
level of the water table fluctuates seasonally due to evaporation, precipitation, and water withdrawals.
Brewster’s potable drinking water supply source is its underground sole source aquifer. The town’s
groundwater resources are part of the “Monomoy Lens,” an aquifer which extends to five towns:
Brewster, Orleans, Harwich, Brewster and Dennis. Brewster’s public water supply wells are located in
large undeveloped areas in and around Nickerson State Park and the Punkhorn Parklands.
Groundwater is the primary source of Brewster’s existing and future drinking water supply. The Town of
Brewster currently has excellent water quality across its public drinking water wells, and most of its
private wells. This is a result of planning for water supply protection through land acquisition and land use
regulation over the last 20 to 30 years. For example, the town has supported the Monomoy Lens
Groundwater Protection Project. Brewster’s Water Quality Review Committee has also been reviewing
development projects regularly over a number of years. The Town of Brewster owns the land of the Zone
Is to all the town’s drinking water wells. Zone I is the protective radius required around a public water
supply well or wellfield, which is 400 feet for Brewster’s drinking water wells, as they have approved
yields of over 100,000 gallons per day.
A Zone II is the area of an aquifer which contributes water to a well under the most severe pumping and
recharge conditions that can be realistically anticipated (i.e., 180 days of pumping at approved yield with
no recharge from precipitation). Any contamination of groundwater in a Zone II could impact drinking
water quality at the public well drawing water from that area. Land acquisition in the Zone II areas to
public drinking water wells is a pro-active approach to protecting drinking water quality. The Zone II areas
in Brewster represent approximately 4,360 acres (excluding surface water ponds), of which 40% , or 1,740
acres, are protected by conservation. Conservation lands include a combination of town and state-owned
properties, conservation restrictions, and other conservation mechanisms.
Map 7 shows Brewster’s drinking water wells as well as the Town’s and neighboring towns’ Zone II areas.
Brewster’s DCPC is also shown.
5. Flood Hazard Areas
Brewster participates in the Federal Flood Insurance Program, which requires that new shorefront
development meet engineering standards for flood proofing, but does not prohibit development. Flood
velocity zones, or V-zones, are land areas where storm surge or direct wave action occurs. The velocity
zones which cover the entire Brewster coastline are all directly subject to wave and wind action.
Landward of the velocity zones are other flood-prone areas (A-Zones) in which standing waters can be
expected during 100-year storm events. Map 8 shows Brewster’s flood hazard areas. In 2019 Brewster’s
Flood Insurance Premium rates were reduced due to the amount of Open Space that Brewster has
preserved.
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Flood Zones (FEMA FIRM)Flood Zone
A - Area inundated by 100 year flood, no base flood elevations
AE - Area inundated by 100 year flood, with base flood elevations
VE - Area inundated by 100 year flooding with velocity hazard (wave action), with base flood elevations
Area of Minimal Flooding
0.2% Annual chance flood hazard
Adjacent Towns
Map 8
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 49
Brewster experiences coastal erosion and flooding regularly and in the coming decades, flooding and
erosion will be increasingly exacerbated due to relative sea level rise. This phenomenon, the result of land
submergence and ocean expansion from global climate change, could result in the loss of shoreline and
upland in Brewster between now and 2025 (CZM, n.d.).
These areas will basically coincide with the 100-year floodplain. Sea level rise will also mean an increase in
the severity of storm damage. The town can expect shoreline retreat that will not only affect private
residences, but town-owned properties and facilities such as parking lots and beaches. The town must
consider this issue when examining long-term public investment in shoreline facilities, such as siting new
parking lots.
The Floodplain Zoning District includes all special flood hazard areas designated on the Town of Brewster
Flood Insurance Rate Map as established by the National Flood Insurance Program. The following uses,
which present low flood damage potential and are unlikely to cause obstructions to flood flows, are
encouraged, provided they are permitted in the underlying district and do not require structures, fill, or
the storage of either materials or equipment:
1. Agricultural uses such as farming, grazing, truck farming, horticulture, etc.
2. Forestry and nursery uses.
3. Outdoor recreational uses, including play areas, nature study, boating, fishing and hunting where
otherwise legally permitted.
4. Conservation of water, plants and wildlife.
5. Wildlife management areas, foot, bicycle, and/or horse paths and bridges provided such uses do
not affect the natural flow pattern of floodwaters or of any watercourse.
6. Temporary nonresidential structures used in connection with fishing, hunting, bird watching,
growing, harvesting, storage, or sale of crops raised on the premises.
7. Buildings and uses lawfully existing prior to the adoption of these provisions.
The town has identified the following as flood plain use limitations:
1. Man-made alteration of sand dunes within Zones V1-30 increases potential flood damage and is
prohibited.
2. All new construction within Zones V1-30 is required to be located landward of the reach of mean
high tide.
3. All subdivision proposals shall be reviewed to assure that:
a. Such proposals minimize flood damage;
b. All public utilities and facilities are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood
damage; and
c. Adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards.
4. Existing contour intervals of site and elevations of existing structures must be included on plan
proposals.
6. Wetlands and Vernal Pools
Wetlands cover more than 20% of Brewster’s land area (Map 9). Saltwater wetlands consist of 12,840
acres, which include salt marshes, tidal flats and barrier beaches. Freshwater wetlands, consisting of 553
acres, include sensitive Atlantic White Cedar, Red Maple and shrub swamps, bogs, vernal pools and other
wetlands. Some of these wetland resource areas are described in more detail below.
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Wetland Resource Areas
Wetlands From DEP as of 2019
Wetland Type
Barrier Beach System
Coastal Bank, Beach, Bluff, or Sea Cliff
Cranberry Bog or Bog
Salt Marsh
Tidal Flat
Wetlands
Wetland Protection Overlay District
Adjacent Towns
Map 9
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 51
Salt Marshes
Salt marshes are tidal areas that are often found behind the protected shores of barrier beaches. There is
a wide variation in salinity levels and the degree and duration of flooding which controls the types and
amounts of vegetation that can be established. Saltmeadow grasses dominate the higher areas of the
marsh. Saltmarsh Cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and Saltmeadow Cordgrass (Spartina patens) are the
most common perennial, salt tolerant grass species in salt marshes, although other species such as Black
Rush (Juncus gerardi) and Sea Lavender (Limonium nashii) may also be found. Salt marshes comprise one
of the most productive ecosystems on earth, providing the basis for the food chain in both freshwater
and marine environments. They also provide excellent wildlife habitat including habitat for migrating and
overwintering waterfowl and shorebirds and the young of many species of marine organisms.
Barrier Beaches
Barrier beaches are low lying strips of coastal dune and beach that protect coastal salt marsh areas and
adjacent inland areas behind the marshes. They serve as a buffer to storm waves and storm surges. They
are dynamic areas where the beach and dunes are constantly changing, and gradually migrating
landward, as a result of wind and wave action. This landward migration is part of the natural cycle of
barrier beaches, and the process of overwash plays an important role in the dissipation of wave energy
and protection of upland areas behind the barrier beach. As storm waves erode the seaward side of the
barrier beach, overwashed material is carried into the marsh and provides a substrate for the formation
of new dune areas, shifting the barrier beach landward. Barrier beaches provide nesting habitat for a
wide variety of birds including Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) and Least Terns (Sterna albifrons).
Vernal Pools
The Town of Brewster contains 38 certified vernal pools. A vernal pool is a temporary pool that forms
during spring rains, through the retention of snowmelt or in low lying areas that intercept seasonally high
water tables. The water is usually held in depressions or low areas and will persist until the heat of
summer causes evaporation of the water. Although typically dry during the summer months, vernal pools
may fill up again during late autumn wet spells and may hold water through the winter. Although vernal
pools are usually associated with woodlands, vernal pools have been found in other low lying areas such
as meadows and sandflats. Vernal pools are important wildlife habitat for a variety of amphibian and
invertebrate species, some of which are completely dependent on the pools for their survival and have a
limited ability to find other suitable breeding locations when "their" vernal pool is lost. The temporary
nature of the pools precludes the establishment of fish populations. Without predation by fish,
amphibian’s eggs, and larvae are able to mature, making these pools ideal habitat for certain species of
frogs and salamanders, as well as other invertebrate species.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 52
Vernal pool protected by the Brewster Conservation Trust. Photo credit: Mass Audubon
Brewster also has a significant number of vegetated wetlands that were converted to cranberry bog
production during the 1920s to 1950s. Most of these wetlands have reverted to their natural vegetative
state and now provide important wildlife habitat, flood control and storm damage prevention, and work
to greatly improve water quality. The existing Brewster Wetlands Protection regulations generally prohibit
the conversion of wetland resource areas into active cranberry operations or other agricultural projects
unless specific criteria are met. Any such proposed agricultural project for a wetland area must “not have
any adverse effect upon any of the interests protected in the By-law.”
The Brewster Wetlands Protection By-law and Regulations are more stringent than the State Wetlands
Protection Act in several distinct areas. For example, the Brewster Wetlands Protection By-law extends
the wetland values protected in the By-law to include: groundwater quality, water quality in the
numerous ponds of the town, erosion and sedimentation control, and aesthetics and historic values.
These values are above and beyond the values listed in the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act
Regulations. The town also extends applicability to include land subject to inundation by groundwater or
surface water, which goes beyond the state’s regulations.
C. Vegetation
The Town of Brewster contains a number of diverse vegetative communities which are ecologically
significant, and which help to define the visual character of the town. There is a wide diversity in the size,
successional stage and vulnerability to development of these communities. These plant communities
perform many critical functions. Plant species moderate weather extremes, help maintain the quality of
the soil and air, protect against erosion, and absorb runoff, therefore protecting groundwater supplies.
Vegetation provides useful habitats for wildlife, including shelter and food, breeding and overwintering
habitat. Some wild plants, such as those producing berries, provide food for humans. Trees, shrubs and
groundcover have aesthetic value, and are a major component of visual quality.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 53
1. Coastal Plant Communities
American Beach Grass is the
dominant species and provides much
of the stability for sand dunes that
extend for miles along Brewster’s
northern seashore. This vegetative
community also provides habitat for a
variety of migratory and year-round
birds. In areas where more soil is
present, Rosa rugosa (Beach Rose)
and Beach Peas take root as well as
thicker coastal shrub communities
including Bayberry, Scrub Oak,
Eastern Red Cedar, Low-bush
Blueberry, Eastern Prickly Pear and
Beach Plum. These more established
vegetative communities also provide
habitat for upland birds.
Erosion and the need for beach renourishment resulting from shoreline development are ongoing
challenges in Brewster. Beach grass and other xerophytes (plants adapted to living in drying conditions)
are of prime importance to the stabilization of dunes and protection of the shoreline. They are capable of
collecting sand, thus building dunes while their strong root systems protect them from excessive wind
erosion.
The town's salt marshes are delicately balanced, productive, and protective habitats which are dependent
largely on barrier beaches to protect them from the open ocean. It has become generally understood that
about two thirds of the value of the commercial catch of fish and shellfish landed on the East Coast of the
United States comes from species that live at least part of their life cycles in marshy estuaries. Salt
marshes provide the food and protection necessary for larval and juvenile marine organisms to reach a
degree of maturity. The grasses prevent these tiny animals and their food supply from being swept out to
sea. Salt marshes provide other functions important to coastal communities:
• They absorb billions of gallons of water brought ashore by high tides and storms, thus mitigating
storm water damage to more landward areas.
• Salt marshes take up and accommodate significant contributions of domestic pollutants found in
coastal runoff. Some of these, such as nitrates and phosphates, can act as fertilizers in reasonable
concentrations and bolster the overall productivity of the marsh. Others, such as potentially toxic
heavy metals and some pesticides, appear to be sequestered to varying degrees by soils and
plants. Less is known about their cycling within the ecosystem. The salt marshes play a powerful
role in maintaining the cleanliness of coastal waters.
American Beach Grass. Photo credit: NOAA
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 54
2. Freshwater Plant Communitie s
Freshwater ponds, lakes and streams support a variety of aquatic
plant species. These resource areas include a mix of globally
restricted plants and more common species such as rushes, sedges,
Blue-joint, Boneset, and Purple Gerardia. Other species include: New
England Boneset, and Maryland Meadow Beauty, both rare in
Massachusetts; Thread-leafed Sundew, common on these ponds, but
uncommon elsewhere; and Spatulate-leaved Sundew. Plymouth
Gentian occurs mixed with Golden-pert, Goldenrod, and Pink
Tickseed. Slender Arrowhead and Bladderwort are also common to
these environs.
Brewster also has nice examples of Atlantic White Cedar and Red
Maple swamps. According to the Massachusetts Natural Heritage
and Endangered Species Program (NHESP), cedar swamps have
declined considerably in Massachusetts due to conversion to
cranberry bogs or reservoirs, and filling for agriculture or
development. Only a few remain on outer Cape Cod. Brewster's
wooded swamps include:
• Atlantic White Cedar Swamp between Elbow and Walkers
Pond
• Atlantic White Cedar Swamp southeast of Vespers Pond
• Red Maple Swamp off Black Duck Cartway/Krawitz
Conservation Area
Some predominant plant species include cranberry, Swamp Azalea, blueberry, Red Maple, water lilies,
and Black Tupelo.
3. Forest Land - Upland Plant Communities
Brewster has relatively large areas of unfragmented second growth pine-oak forest compared to other
Cape towns. As the title implies, second growth pine/oak forest has sprung up on formerly cultivated
lands that once were forested, prior to clearing by the Cape’s original settlers. The pines and oaks are
often 30 to 50 years old and are found on most undeveloped sites on the Cape. The vegetative
community will continue to change in these areas as pines mature and give way to oaks and other
hardwoods. These areas are considered to be the Cape’s prime developable land and also provide
important upland wildlife and plant habitat. Brewster is fortunate to have at least two such significantly
sized (by Cape standards) unfragmented second growth forests designated as protected open space:
Atlantic white cedar. Photo credit:
Mike Allen
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 55
• The Punkhorn Parklands Conservation
Area, located in the southwestern corner
of town, contains over 800 acres of
predominantly Pitch Pine forest, slowly
being overtaken by hardwoods, mostly
Black Oak with some White Oak. There
are a number of small pure stands of Pine
Barrens, home to a threatened species,
the Barrens Buck Moth. Important as a
forest rebuilder, the Pitch Pine is slowly
replenishing the soil. Other species
include American Beech, White Pine and
Red Maple. The Punkhorn’s miles of trails
provide for long leisurely walks and
possible glimpses of “forest interior”
species, such as warblers, vireos, cuckoos,
tanagers and whip-poor-wills, that prefer
to dwell in blocks of unbroken woodland.
• Nickerson State Park, located at the
eastern end of town, has over 1,888 acres
of woodlands and ponds. One of the most
popular parks in the state, it has salt and
fresh-water beaches, miles of trails for
walking, hiking and horse-back riding,
420 campsites, and boating and
swimming access.
There are also many smaller, healthy stands of woodlands scattered throughout town including four
hardwood tree woodland communities remaining in Brewster outside of Nickerson State Park. These are
remnants of the forest community present prior to European settlement.
• Post Oak/Hickory Woodland Community on Wings Island
• American Beech Forest Woodland Community west of Paine’s Creek Road
• American Beech Forest Woodland Community east of Run Hill Road, southeast of the Town
Transfer Station
• Climax community (the final stage of ecological succession, which includes mixed forest
vegetation) on Greenland Pond (PH)
In addition to the above, Red, White, Scarlet and Black oak are all common in this area. White Pine and
hardwoods such as Beech, Pignut, and Bitternut Hickory, Aspen, Sassafras and American Holly are also
part of the natural cover type, although they were more abundant prior to the Colonial Period. Red
Maple, Black Tupelo, willows, and Atlantic White Cedar grow in poorly drained pockets in the topography.
There also exist stands of Gray Birch, dogwood, locust, and hickory.
Abundant understory plants include huckleberry, Low Bush and High Bush Blueberry, Sweet Pepperbush,
Viburnums, Bayberry, Poison Ivy, Greenbrier, Bearberry, Striped Wintergreen, and many species of
Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area, Yellow and
Orange Loop. Photo credit: Tina Smith (alltrails.com)
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 56
wildflowers. A transition from forest to shrub thickets takes place in areas near the Bay shore. Beach
Plum, Staghorn Sumac, Salt Spray Rose, Chokeberry, Poison Ivy and Bayberry are a part of the commu nity
located in the swales behind the beach and dune systems. The beach and dunes are only habitable for
hardy organisms that have adapted to an environment of wind borne salt, shifting dunes and salt water
flooding. The plants found in this environment include Beach Heather, Beach Pea, Seaside Goldenrod,
Dusty Miller, Sea Rocket, Sea Lavender, Beach Grass and various Spartina species.
Upland areas, including former fields, contain a variety of grasses, emergent woody species such as Wild
Cherry and Eastern Red Cedar, pioneer species such as Poison Ivy, fruits such as Black Raspberry and Wild
Strawberry, thistle, Queen Ann's Lace, milkweed, chicory, and numerous other species. These provide
important habitat and food for wildlife. Some of Brewster’s upland communities are described in more
detail below.
4. Public Shade Trees
Natural vegetation areas, both large and small, are important to the preservation of Brewster’s rural
character. Keeping natural vegetation intact as much as possible as the town develops, helps to maintain
this rural image. Unfortunately, many residents and visitors alike assume that all green areas they see and
enjoy are protected, which is not true. The Open Space Committee has worked hard to protect as many
parcels as possible over the years. The Planning Board also requires the retention of vegetated buffers
along parking areas and has many requirements for the retention/permanent protection of open space in
the development of subdivisions.
Aside from the aesthetic value trees and other vegetation provide, they are necessary components of the
regional ecosystem. They provide valuable wildlife habitat, temperature moderation, air purification, and
removal of pollutants from precipitation and have considerable impact on energy consumption in
residences. “Heat Islands” or domes of warmer air over urban/suburban areas are caused by the loss of
trees and shrubs and the absorption of more heat by pavement buildings and other sources. Heat islands
can affect local, regional, and global climate, as well as air quality.
Public shade trees are found in all of Brewster’s parks, small squares like the “Egg,” the grounds of all
Town-owned buildings, Town-owned and private cemeteries alike, and along public and private
roadways.
Management of the Town’s shade trees is the responsibility of the Tree Warden, who is also the
Superintendent of the Department of Public Works (DPW). Trees on public streets are maintained by the
DPW. No money is specifically allocated for the planting of new trees. The DPW does get about $5,000
every third or fourth year to deal with removal. Generally, any monies spent for care comes out of the
DPW General Expense Budget, such as a recently purchased box of tree fertilizer spikes to put around the
trees they care for. The spikes are put in the ground on off hours, voluntarily, to avoid the expense of
having to pay someone to do it and to stay out of the hot sun during the day. The rest of the "shade"
trees in town see limited care, if any. When the DPW has a bucket truck in town for removals, they try to
get some deadwood pruning out of the way, but hazardous removals come first.
The Town has applied for and received several grants, one of those being $5,000 from a local family
foundation to replace some of the many trees lost during a December 9, 2005 storm. The DPW planted
approximately 60 trees throughout town - in cemeteries, schools, and a few along town roadways. The
cemetery trees and the ones along Old Long Pond Road are doing fine, especially the cemetery.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 57
The DPW is looking to provide additional plantings at the Cape Cod Rail Trail parking area on Route 124.
Some landscaping has already been installed at this location by a local family and the DPW has expanded
these plantings. The department completed the installation of split rail fencing along the parking area and
has added trees appropriate for the area. Three Hedge Maples from the perimeter of the Brewster
Landfill were relocated to this location prior to the installation of photovoltaic cells on the capped landfill.
In addition to the Rail Trail Parking area project, the DPW also replanted the traffic island at the corner of
AP Newcomb Road and Stony Brook Road in the western section of Brewster. The DPW completed a large
water quality project in this area and tree plantings were also added to one of the islands. The island on
the westerly side of AP Newcomb Rd has veteran’s stone and memorial plaque and two large, but
declining, Green Ash trees, one of which was struck by lightning several years ago. The second ash tree
has been trimmed by the local power company over the years and is in decline. New tree plantings for
this island include the relocation of three Gingko trees, also from the perimeter of the Brewster Landfill.
The trees are scheduled to be relocated later this fall. Once these trees become established, the ash trees
will be removed. The second island at this intersection is the location of the recently installed stormwater
sand filter and tree planting on this island will be avoided.
The DPW has also expanded an area near the office where crab apple trees had been planted. Care for
these trees has been expanded using deep root fertilization practices and deadwood pruning. In addition
to the crab apple trees, this area has been expanded using plant materials removed from other town
buildings and from excavation activities throughout the Town. There are about a dozen crab apple trees,
some forsythia and a number of other shrubs and plantings as well as perennial plantings salvaged from
the compost pile. A water line was installed to the area, as was an irrigation system to improve plant
quality. These plant materials can then be used in other areas of town as needed. The Barnstable County
Cooperative Extension Service also maintains a tree farm and they sell to municipalities at significant
savings over commercial gardens. Staffing and adequate funding are the limitations to this effort.
The designation of certain roads in town as Scenic Roads under state law provides protection for trees by
requiring a public hearing and review prior to the removal of trees for roadway construction or other
reasons.
The Town has designated the following roads as Local Scenic Roadways, under the provisions of MGL
Chapter 67 of the Acts of 1973, to preserve landscaping and stone walls. The Historic District Committee
has authority to approve or disapprove any cutting of trees along Route 6A. The Planning Board under the
Scenic Road Act and Shade Tree Acts, has preservation authority and permitting power for the following
"Scenic Roads." When these roads are within the Old Kings Highway Historic District, such a review is
done jointly by the Planning Board and the Old Kings Highway Historic District Committee.
• Stony Brook Road
• Satucket Road
• Lower Road
• Paine’s Creek Road
• Brier Lane
• Slough Road
• Tubman Road
• Robbins Hill Road
• Great Fields Road
• Breakwater Road
• Point of Rocks Road
• Old North Road
• Cathedral Road
• Foster Road
• Ellis Landing Road
• Linnell Landing Road
• Crosby Lane
• Millstone Road
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 58
• Red Top Road, from Stony Brook Road to
Satucket Road
• Run Hill Road, from Stony Brook Road as
far as Millpond Drive
The Conservation Commission also protects all vegetation including shade trees within 100 feet of any
wetland. They have taken many enforcement actions following incidents of illegal clearing and pruning in
wetland resource areas. The Commission has taken the strongest action allowed under state regulations
to enact penalties for illegal clearing.
5. Rare Plant Communities
Rare plant habitats and species have been documented and mapped over the years, most notably by the
NHESP. The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) prepared a Cape-wide inventory of notable habitats
in their Critical Habitats Atlas and the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts prepared a Cape -wide
map of significant wildlife habitats in their Cape Cod Wildlife Habitat Conservation Project. Map 10 shows
the mapped endangered species habitat and BioMap II Core Habitat and Supporting Natural Communities
in Brewster.
NHESP maintains a list of all Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) – listed species observed and
documented in each Massachusetts municipality. These species are listed because they are threatened
(T), Endangered (E) or Special Concern (SC):
• Endangered species are in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their
range or are in danger of extirpation from Massachusetts.
• Threatened species are likely to become endangered in Massachusetts in the foreseeable future
throughout all or a significant portion of their range.
• Special Concern species have suffered a decline that could threaten the species if allowed to
continue unchecked or occur in such small numbers or with such restricted distribution or
specialized habitat requirements that they could easily become threatened in Massachusetts.
Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin,
USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Endangered Species Habitats NHESP Estimated Habitat
NHESP Priority Habitat
NHESP Natural Communities
Biomap 2 Core Habitat
Biomap 2 Critical Natural Landscape
Adjacent Town
Map 10
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 60
Table 4.3. Brewster’s MESA-listed Plant Species in Brewster as of 6-2020
Scientific Name Common Name
MESA
Status
Most Recent
Observation
Carex mitchelliana Mitchell's Sedge T 2012
Dichanthelium dichotomum ssp. mattamuskeetense Mattamuskeet Panic-grass E 1918
Dichanthelium ovale ssp. pseudopubescens Commons's Panic-grass SC 2006
Gamochaeta purpurea Purple Cudweed E 1924
Isoetes acadiensis Acadian Quillwort E 2009
Lachnanthes caroliana Redroot SC 2016
Liatris scariosa var. novae-angliae New England Blazing Star SC 2017
Lipocarpha micrantha Dwarf Bulrush T 2012
Mertensia maritima Oysterleaf E 2001
Ophioglossum pusillum Adder's-tongue Fern T 1992
Opuntia humifusa Prickly Pear E 1989
Persicaria puritanorum Pondshore Knotweed SC 2012
Rhexia mariana Maryland Meadow Beauty E 2017
Rhynchospora scirpoides Long-beaked Bald-sedge SC 2012
Rumex pallidus Seabeach Dock T 1994
Sabatia kennedyana Plymouth Gentian SC 2017
Sagittaria teres Terete Arrowhead SC 2016
Spartina cynosuroides Salt Reedgrass T 2018
Utricularia resupinata Resupinate Bladderwort T 2002
Table 4.4. US Fish & Wildlife Endangered & Threatened Plant Species in Massachusetts, 2020
Scientific Name Common Name
Agalinis acuta Sandplain Gerardia
Isotria medeoloides Small-whorled Pogonia
Scirpus ancistrochaetus Northern Bulrush
NHESP, with funding made available by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental
Affairs (EEA), developed a BioMap to identify the areas most in need of protection in order to protect the
native biodiversity of the Commonwealth. The BioMap focuses primarily on state-listed rare species and
exemplary natural communities but also includes the full breadth of the State's biological diversity. The
goal of the BioMap project, completed in 2001, was to identify and delineate the most important areas
for the long-term viability of terrestrial, wetland, and estuarine elements of biodiversity in Massachusetts.
Similarly, the goal of the NHESP Living Waters project, completed in 2003, was to identify and delineate
the rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds that are important for freshwater biodiversity in the
Commonwealth. These two conservation plans are based on documented observations of rare species,
natural communities, and exemplary habitats. BioMap and Living Waters were combined and updated in
BioMap2 in 2010 (Map 10).
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 61
BioMap2 delineates “Core Habitats” that identify the most critical sites for biodiversity conservation
across the state. Core Habitats represent habitat for the state’s most viable rare plant and animal
populations and include exemplary natural communities and aquatic habitats. Core Habitats represent a
wide diversity of rare species and natural communities, and these areas are also thought to contain
virtually all of the other described species in Massachusetts. Statewide, BioMap Core Habitats encompass
1,380,000 acres of uplands and wetlands, and Living Waters identifies 429 Core Habitats in rivers,
streams, lakes, and ponds.
BioMap2 Core Habitat and Critical Natural Landscape areas cover approximately 50% of the Town of
Brewster, in two main areas. One large area Core Habitat encompasses Nickerson State Park and its
surrounds extending southeast to the town boundary and northeast to include Namskaket Creek. The
second encompasses the Punkhorn Parklands area, the Mill Ponds, the herring run, and the entire Paine's
Creek area. BioMap2 Critical Natural Landscapes cover the transition zones between the Core Habitat
areas and the developed areas and are concentrated around ponds (Map 7).
D. Fisheries and Wildlife
Wildlife is an important recreational, commercial, and educational resource, and represents a rich,
natural heritage which helps to define the basic character of the town. It adds interest and variety to the
landscape, plays an important role in controlling pest infestation, and in general is a barometer of the
ecological health of the community. The spread of roads and subdivisions has reduced and greatly
fragmented the habitat of many native wildlife species which cannot easily survive. Many of these species
have already been replaced with others that have adapted to suburban environments; others remain
threatened by development.
As discussed in the sections above, Brewster has within its boundaries a large number of diverse habitats
supporting healthy wildlife populations. Individual wildlife will be best conserved if their habitats are
protected intact with enough space to provide the food webs needed to sustain each species.
1. Inventory
Certain wildlife habitat areas in Brewster are of particular importance and deserve greater protection
through conservation land purchases, habitat management and regulation to assure that critical habitat is
not broken up into suboptimal size areas, or contaminated by development or chemicals. Species listed as
State endangered or threatened should be given the same priority for preservation as federally listed
species, and all planning decisions for the use of Brewster land should reflect wildlife considerations. A
general species inventory follows.
Tidelands and Coastal Waters
Brewster has the following native species occurring in its tidelands and coastal waters:
Marine Mammals
• Right, Sperm, Humpback, Minke, Pilot and Fin Back whales, Common and White-Sided Dolphin,
Harbor Porpoise, Harbor and Gray Seals.
Reptiles
• Loggerhead, Leatherback, Green and Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtles, Diamond Back Terrapin.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 62
Fish
• Alewife: there are two Alewife (Herring) runs in
Brewster at Paine's Creek and Long Pond.
• Little Skate, Alewife, Atlantic Salmon, American
Eel, Shiners and Minnows, Atlantic Cod, Smooth
Flounder, Seahorse, Pipefish, Silversides, Bluefish,
Striped Bass, Scup, Sculpin, Tautog, Northern
Puffer, Porcupine Fish and Toadfish which at least
seasonally occupy the coastal waters of Brewster
along with occasional Great White Sharks.
Cephalopods are also commonly seen in the form
of Common and Boreal Squids.
• The tidal creeks and marshes are home to
Mummichugs and Three-spined Sticklebacks.
Mollusks/Shellfish
• Nut Clams, Blood and Transverse Ark,
Ribbed/Blue/Horse Mussels, Eastern Oyster, Bay,
Iceland and Deep Sea Scallops, Jingle Shell, Gem
Clam, Quahog, Surf, Common Razor and Soft-
Shell (Steamer) Clams, False Anglewing and
Piddock Clam.
• The Common Eastern Chiton.
Common Gastropods (snails)
• Limpets, Smooth and Common Periwinkle,
Common Slipper Shell, Moon Snail and their
sand-collar egg-masses, Oyster Drill, Dogwinkle,
Waved Whelk, Dove Shell, Knobbed and
Channeled Whelk, Common Mud and Salt Marsh
Snail, Bubble Shell.
• A number of species of colorful shell-less
Gastropods known as Nudibranchs or Sea Slugs.
Crustaceans
• Fiddler Crabs, Common Rock Barnacles, Blue, Lady, Green, Jonah, Rock, Spider, Hermit and Mole
crabs, American Lobster, various shrimp, myriad Common Rock Barnacles and swarms of Sand
Fleas/Beach Hoppers.
Arachnids
• Horseshoe Crab
Alewife. Photo credit: US Fish & Wildlife Service
Blue mussels. Photo credit: NOAA
Horseshoe crab. Photo credit: Kaldari
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 63
Echinoderms
• Northern Sand Dollar, New England Sea Cucumber, Purple and Green Sea Urchins, Northern Sea
Star and Common Starfish
Annelids
• Clam Worm, Parchment worms, and others.
Many of the above listed species contribute their shells and molts to the vast array of intriguing items
that wash ashore twice a day and add to the beach
wrack line.
Coastal Birds
• At least seasonally, seabirds such as Northern
Fulmar, Sooty Shearwater, Wilson's and Leach's
Storm-Petrel, Northern Gannet, and, Great and
Double-crested Cormorants, Common Loons,
Horned, Pied-billed and Red-necked Grebes,
Laughing, Ring-billed, Herring and Black-backed
Gulls, Common, Least and Roseate Terns,
Razorbills, Common Murre, Dovekie, Atlantic
Puffin.
• Ducks and geese such as Mute Swan, Canada
Goose, Brant, Mallard, Black Duck, Green-
winged and Blue-winged Teal, American
Widgeon, Northern Pintail, Ruddy Duck, Wood
Duck, Canvasback, Greater and Lesser Scaup,
Common Eider, Black, White-winged and Surf
Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Common Goldeneye,
Bufflehead, Common and Red-breasted
Merganser and the occasional Brown Pelican.
• The tidal flats and marshes are patrolled by
birds such as King, Clapper and Virginia Rail,
Sora, Common Moorhen, American Coot,
American Oystercatcher, American Avocet,
Piping, Wilson's, Black-bellied and
Semipalmated Plovers, Killdeer, Hudsonian and
Marbled Godwits, Whimbrel, Curlew, Willet,
Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Red Knot,
Common and Spotted Sandpiper, Short-billed
Dowitcher, Common Snipe, Ruddy Turnstone,
Dunlin, Sanderling, Upland Sandpiper, Least and
American Bittern, Black-crowned Night Heron,
Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Green-backed Heron, Cattle, Snowy and Great Egrets, Great Blue
Heron, Belted Kingfisher with occasional Glossy Ibis and Wood Stork.
Least tern. Photo credit: US Fish & Wildlife Service
Mallards. Photo credit: US Fish & Wildlife Service
Great Blue Heron. Photo credit: US Fish & Wildlife
Service
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 64
• Brewster is also host to larger birds such as Turkey Vultures and a number of Raptors and
Accipiters: Bald Eagles, Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper's Hawk, Northern
Goshawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk and
Osprey. There are also smaller hunters, American Kestrel, Merlin, with the occasional Peregrine
Falcon.
Inland Species
Mammals
• White-Tailed Deer, Eastern Coyote, Red Fox,
Raccoon, Eastern Cottontail, White-lined Skunk,
Grey, Red and Flying Squirrels, Virginia Opossum,
Woodchuck, Fisher, Otter, Eastern Chipmunk,
White-footed Mice and Meadow Voles, Moles,
Brown Rats, and Bats.
Reptiles
• Snakes: Snakes in Brewster include the Hognosed,
Northern Rat, Red Rat, Milk, Green, garter, Grass,
Northern Water, and Black Racer amongst others.
• Turtles: Turtles include the Box, Red-eared Slider,
Eastern Painted, Bog, Spotted, Mud, Snapping and
Diamondback Terrapin
Amphibians
• Frogs include the Bull, Green, Pickerel, Tree, Gray
Tree, Wood, and Spring Peepers.
• Salamanders include the Spotted, and Red-backed
Salamanders.
Insects
• Representatives of most all insect families,
including a number of rare, endangered and
threatened, recently discovered Dragonflies and
Damselflies.
Birds
• Inland Bird Species include ground species as
Ruffed Grouse, Woodcock, Northern Bobwhite,
Ring-necked Pheasant, Wild Turkey, Mourning Doves, Rock Dove, Yellow and Black-billed
Cuckoos, Whip-poor-will, Chuck-will's Widow, Common Nighthawk, and Chimney Swift.
Red fox. Photo credit: US Fish & Wildlife Service
Box turtle. Photo credit: US Fish & Wildlife Service
Halloween pennant dragonfly. Photo credit: US
Fish & Wildlife Service
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 65
• Nighttime hunters include Common Barn Owl, Short-eared Owl, Long-eared Owl, Great Horned
Owl, Barred Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and winter beach visits from
Snowy Owls.
• A number of woodpeckers inhabit our
woodlands; Northern Flicker, Red-bellied
Woodpecker, Redheaded Woodpecker, Yellow-
bellied Sapsucker, Downy and Hairy
Woodpeckers and the Pileated Woodpecker.
• Passerines (perching birds) include Eastern
Kingbird, Great Crested Flycatcher, Olive-sided
Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern
Phoebe, Least and Acadian Flycatchers, Horned
Lark; Tree Swallow, Purple Martin, Bank,
Northern Rough-winged, Cliff and Barn Swallows;
Blue Jay, American Crow, Fish Crow, Common
Raven, Tufted Titmouse, Black-capped
Chickadee, Carolina Chickadee, Brown Creeper,
White and Red-breasted Nuthatches; House and
Carolina Wrens, Marsh Wren; Golden and Ruby-
crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern
Bluebird, Woodthrush, Veery, Swainson's Thrush,
Hermit Thrush, American Robin, Northern
Wheatear, Northern Shrike, Gray Catbird,
Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Water
Pipit, Cedar Waxwings; European Starling, White-
eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Solitary Vireo,
Red-eyed Vireo, Warbling Vireo.
• Warblers include the Prothonotary, Blue-winged,
Tennessee, Nashville, Northern Parula, Black-
and-white, Black-throated Blue, Cerulean,
Blackburnian, Chestnut-sided, Cape May,
Magnolia, Yellow-rumped, Black-throated Green,
Yellow-throated, Prairie, Bay-breasted, Pine,
Palm, Yellow, Kentucky, Canada, Hooded, and
Worm-eating Warblers, Ovenbird, Louisiana
Waterthrush, Northern Waterthrush, Common
Yellowthroat, Yellow-breasted Chat and
American Redstart.
• Sparrows include the Grasshopper, Sharp-tailed, Seaside, Vesper, Savannah, Song, American
Tree, Field, Chipping, White-throated, White-crowned, Fox, Swamp, as well as Dark-eyed Junco,
Lapland Longspur, Snow bunting, Dickcissel.
• In the Blackbird family the Cape has Bobolink, Eastern Meadowlark, Red-winged Blackbird, Rusty
Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Boat-tailed Grackle, Orchard Oriole,
Northern Oriole, Scarlet Tanager.
Barred owl. Photo credit: US Fish & Wildlife
Service
Red-bellied woodpecker. Photo credit: US Fish &
Wildlife Service
White-crowed sparrow. Photo credit: US Fish &
Wildlife Service
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 66
• Cape Cod Finches include the House/English Sparrow, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, Purple
Finch, House Finch, Evening Grosbeak.
• Other Cape residents and visitors are the Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Northern Cardinal, Snow
Bunting, Indigo Bunting and Rufous-sided Towhee.
• The smallest avian species in our area is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.
The fact that Cape Cod and therefore Brewster is located in the path of many migratory flyways allows
birdwatchers to site any number of unusual and spectacular species in route to wintering or breeding
grounds and spectacular sightings of unusual species blown in from Europe and other areas by storm
winds.
2. Vernal Pools
Vernal pools provide habitat for many wildlife species. Certain species are specifically adapted for life in a
vernal pool and cannot complete their life cycle without a vernal pool. For example, many of these
species, such as the Yellow-Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum), require vernal pools for
reproduction. The loss of vernal pools and associated upland habitat areas would result in the extirpation
of vernal pool-dependent species. All four amphibian species listed as rare in Massachusetts use vernal
pools. In addition, two state-listed turtle species and three state-listed crustaceans use vernal pools.
There are 38 certified vernal pools in Brewster (Map 9).
3. Corridors for Wildlife Migration
Riparian areas (i.e., rivers, streams and adjacent lands) are important habitats for wildlife, and function as
corridors for wildlife migration. This includes many of what are ordinarily thought of as "upland" species
as well as wetland species. For example, many upland animals need access to rivers and streams for
hunting and drinking, particularly in the winter when other water sources may be frozen over. The
junction between rivers, streams and adjacent riparian land is especially high in ecological diversity and
biological productivity because gravity is constantly moving energy and matter along with the current and
because so many animals spend their lives both in water and on land. The high value of riparian areas as
wildlife habitat is also due to the abundance of water combined with the convergence of many species
along the edges and ecological transition zones between aquatic/wetland, aquatic/upland,
wetland/upland and river channel/backwaters habitats (Cohen, 1997). In Brewster, examples of where
wildlife can migrate include:
• Along the Cape Cod Bike Path.
• Protected land along Quivett Creek.
• Protected land from Spruce Hill Conservation Area at Cape Cod Bay through Nickerson State Park.
• Protected land from Calf Field Pond to Punkhorn Parklands.
4. Rare Species
As described in the preceding sections, Brewster provides a variety of habitats for wildlife species: some
of these species are unique to the area, others have their largest, most stable populations here, and yet
others are still relatively common. Brewster is also home to 14 MESA-listed wildlife species (four birds,
seven insects, one fish, one mammal and two reptiles (Table 4.5) and 17 federally-listed species (Table
4.6).
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 67
Table 4.5. Brewster’s MESA-Listed Wildlife Species as of 6-2020
Taxonomic Group Scientific Name Common Name
MESA
Status
Federal
Status
Most Recent
Observation
Bird Charadrius melodus Piping Plover T T 2018
Bird Parula americana Northern Parula T
2006
Bird Sterna dougallii Roseate Tern E E 2008
Bird Sterna hirundo Common Tern SC
2008
Butterfly/Moth Abagrotis nefascia Coastal Heathland
Cutworm
SC
1981
Butterfly/Moth Apamea inebriata Drunk Apamea Moth SC
1981
Butterfly/Moth Papaipema
sulphurata
Water-willow Borer Moth T
2015
Dragonfly/Damselfly Enallagma daeckii Attenuated Bluet T
2010
Dragonfly/Damselfly Enallagma pictum Scarlet Bluet T
2012
Dragonfly/Damselfly Enallagma
recurvatum
Pine Barrens Bluet T
2005
Fish Notropis bifrenatus Bridle Shiner SC
1961
Mammal Eubalaena glacialis Northern Right Whale E E 2010
Reptile Malaclemys terrapin Diamond-backed Terrapin T
2002
Reptile Terrapene carolina Eastern Box Turtle SC
2019
Table 4.6. US Fish & Wildlife Endangered & Threatened Species in Massachusetts , 2020
Taxonomic Group Scientific Name Common Name
Bird Calidris canutus rufa Red Knot
Bird Charadrius melodus Piping Plover
Bird Sterna dougallii dougallii Roseate Tern
Fish Acipenser brevirostrum Shortnose Sturgeon
Mammal Myotis septentrionalis Northern Long-eared Bat
Mammal Sylvilagus transitionalis New England Cottontail
Reptile Caretta caretta Loggerhead Sea Turtle
Reptile Chelonia mydas Green Sea Turtle
Reptile Clemmys (Glyptemys)
muhlenbergii Bog Turtle
Reptile Dermochelys coriacea Leatherback Sea Turtle
Reptile Eretmochelys imbricate Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Reptile Lepidochelys kempii Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle
Reptile Pseudemys rubriventris MA Population of Northern Red-bellied Cooter
Invertebrate Alasmidonta heterodon Dwarf Wedgemussel
Insect Cicindela dorsalis dorsalis Northern Beach Tiger Beetle
Insect Cicindela puritana Puritan Tiger Beetle
Insect Nicrophorus americanus American Burying Beetle
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 68
E. Scenic Resources and Unique Environments
Map 11 shows Brewster’s unique features, which include some of its most scenic and historic resource
areas.
1. Heritage Landscapes
According to the Brewster Reconnaissance Report (March 2007) prepared as part of the Massachusetts
Heritage Landscape Inventory Program (HLI), heritage landscapes are defined as:
“…those special places and spaces created by human interaction with the natural environment
that help define the character of a community and reflect its past. They are dynamic and evolving;
they reflect the history of a community and provide a sense of place; they show the natural
ecology that influenced land use patterns; and they often have scenic qualities. The wealth of
landscapes is central to each community’s character, yet heritage landscapes are vulnerable and
ever changing. For this reason it is important to take the first steps towards their preservation by
identifying those landscapes that are particularly valued by the community – a favorite local farm,
a distinctive neighborhood or mill village, a unique natural feature or an important river corridor.”
In 2007, the Cape Cod Commission, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and
Boston University Preservation Studies Program worked with HLI to help three Cape Cod communities,
including Brewster, to identify critical landscape resources, particularly those that are significant and
unprotected, including Brewster. The purpose of the inventory was to focus on landscapes that have not
been identified in previous survey efforts and to provide communities with strategies for preservation.
The Reconnaissance Report outlines the Town’s history of the community, describes the priority heritage
landscapes, discusses planning issues identified by the community, identifies planning tools available in
the community, and makes preservation recommendations.
Heritage landscapes in Brewster come in many forms. The following provides a list of priority landscapes
that contribute to the community’s character and may not be permanently protected or preserved.
Cemeteries
There are six (6) large cemeteries and a number of smaller, older family plots in town.
• The Brewster Old Burying Ground - Most of the 596 graves in this old cemetery date from 1750
to 1850. (Breakwater Road behind Unitarian Church)
• Dillingham Cemetery - An excellent example of an 18th century New England family burying
ground. (Stony Brook Road)
• Red Top Cemetery - An old graveyard which is still in use. (Red Top & Stony Brook Roads)
• Sears Cemetery - The oldest legible date is 1726. Reading these tombstones provides a graphic
record of life of a very historic local family. (off Airline Road near Route 6A)
• Brewster Cemetery - Interesting 19th century monuments (off Lower Road)
• Pine Grove Cemetery - Quiet 19th century yard, still in use, contains several stones with
remarkable epitaphs. (Foster Road & Old Cemetery Road - off Route 6A)
• Foster Cemetery – earliest date is 1855, (Long Pond Road near No Bottom Pond)
• Family cemeteries in Nickerson State Park
Esri, HERE, Garmin, INCREMENT P,
NGA, USGS
Herring Run
Sheep Pond
Brewster
Flats
Eddy Bay
Trail
Overlook
Whale Rock
¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Scenic Resources and Unique Features MHC Inventory Resource Type
Building
Burial Ground
Object
Structure
Geologic Feature Example
Coastal Plain Pond Shore Community
Kettle Hole Pond
Old King's Highway Historic District
MHC Inventoried Area
National Register of Historic Places
Area of Critical Environmental Concern
Adjacent TownsACEC - Mass. DCR
Historic Sites and Areas - Mass. Historical Commission
Coastal Plain Pond Shore Community - NHESP
Map 11
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 70
Commons/Village Centers
The Brewster Town Commons or Village Center is generally considered to be the confluence of Routes
137, 124 and 6A, which is where the first church gathered in 1700. This is also the site of the Old General
Store, which has served as a meeting place for Brewster residents for many years.
Mill S ites
The Stony Brook Valley encompasses a quarter of Brewster. Its boundaries include all of West Brewster.
The Valley is rich with historic resources such as a grist mill from 1873 and early 18th century houses. The
Stony Brook Valley area includes the 1873 Stony Brook Grist Mill and associated Mill Ponds and 18th
century houses. In 1940, the Town of Brewster acquired the property encompassing the Herring Run,
Grist Mill, and the remains of Factory Village on Stony Brook Road. The Mill Sites Committee oversees the
preservation of Brewster's historic Grist Mill, and the town-owned land and scenic footpaths along Stony
Brook. It is important to preserve the Village and Neighborhood Character of this area by doing additional
inventory work of significant resources in the Valley. Stony Brook Grist Mill and its associated Mill Ponds
are also important to the town’s scenic and historic heritage.
Parks
Brewster’s Drummer Boy Park is
important for its scenic, historic, and
recreational opportunities and is an
important asset to the town. The 17-
acre park located along historic
Route 6A with scenic views of Cape
Cod Bay includes well-tended lawns,
attractive tree-plantings, a children’s
playground (updated in 2019), and
the historic restored 18th century
Higgins Farm Windmill and historic
home and blacksmith shop on the
adjacent Historical Society and
Brewster Conservation Trust
properties.
A scenic and recreational asset, Nickerson State Park, offers family outings, camping, hiking, swimming,
and boating. There are over 400 campsites for which the Park will accept reservations, and there is also a
stocked year-round pond for freshwater fishing.
The railroad right-of-way that is now the Cape Cod Rail Trail is also an important scenic heritage
landscape, dating from the Early Industrial Period (1830-1870).
Buildings/Estates
Historic homes and estates are also a significant part of Brewster’s scenic heritage. Over 99 sea captains
made their home in Brewster in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of their homes are still standing and
have been renovated or restored to their original beauty. Several of the historic homes are available to
Higgins Farm Windmill. Photo credit: John Phelan
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 71
visit, as they form a major part of the Brewster economy, as charming country inns and quaint bed and
breakfasts. A notable example is the Crosby Mansion. Built in 1888, the mansion, named Tawasentha by
its original owners, Albert and Matilda Crosby, is located on the west side of Crosby Lane off of Route 6A
in East Brewster. This imposing colonial revival house now belongs to the Commonwealth of MA and is a
part of Nickerson State Park. It is also one of the featured cultural attractions on the Brewster segment of
the Cape Cod Pathways trail network.
The Old Town Hall (Brewster’s second one), located
at 1240 Main Street, next door to the Fire
Department, was designed by Boston architect,
Walter T. Winslow in popular Queen Anne style. It
was completed in 1881 and restored in 1973. It was
the focus of both town government and Brewster’s
civic life from 1881 to 1985: town meetings were
held here, taxes paid, marriages, births and deaths
recorded. Town Hall served as the social center of
Brewster: suppers were served, theatrical
productions enjoyed, clubs and societies organized. It
was also a large sewing center and the founding
location of the Brewster Museum of Natural History.
Today this lovely historic building is home to the
Brewster Council on Aging, serving as a center for
senior activities, lunch programs, bridge games, and
summer art shows.
In addition, the Captain Mayo home, a restored 1868 Victorian building on Main Street, is now the
Brewster Ladies' Library. Recently expanded in 1997, the Library has new large meeting rooms, access to
the Internet and is a member of the Cape-wide CLAMS Library System, making it a most valuable local and
regional resource.
Farms/Cranberry Bogs
Brewster is also marked by scenic agricultural lands, including farmsteads, pastures, fields, woodlots, and
cranberry bogs. In addition to their scenic properties, these agricultural operations provide local healthy
food for residents. There are also farms that provide recreational opportunities, such as horseback riding.
Preservation of agricultural landscapes means preservation of the farming activities, particularly in
Brewster where farms are declining, and their character is integral to the community’s past. It is
important to know what features of these agricultural landscapes are and which features the community
treasures in order to make a case for preservation of these farms. Some preservation tools are available
that can assist communities in preserving the actual farming activities even if only a few farms remain.
Others are tools to preserve the landscape when the farm is sold. Brewster already has adopted the
Cluster Residential Development Bylaw which requires 60% of dedicated common space, not including
wetlands in a subdivision. It also adopted the Natural Resource Protection Design (NRPD) bylaw which
over lays all Zone II areas, as well as the Pleasant Bay Watershed. This bylaw reduces the number of
housing lot by half, as well as requiring 80% open space, not including wetlands.
Old Town Hall. Photo credit: T.S. Custadio
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 72
The town may want to consider strategies that specifically support farming activities, such as:
• Continue supporting the local agricultural commission which advocates for farming.
• Document additional farms that may not presently be included in Brewster’s inventory of historic
resources, using MHC survey forms.
• Adopt a right-to-farm bylaw which allows farmers to carry on farming activities that may be
considered a nuisance to neighbors.
• Develop partnerships to raise funds to purchase development rights on farms or to assist farmers
in the restoration of historic farm buildings for which the owner would be required to donate a
preservation restriction (PR).
• Continue public-private partnerships to preserve farm land through purchase of conservation
restrictions (CRs) or agricultural preservation restrictions
Camps
The Cape Cod Sea Camps is a property that encompasses a great amount of acreage and is the largest
privately owned property on Main Street. It provides a scenic view along Main Street, as well as from
Cape Cod Bay. This is a prime candidate for conservation and historic preservation restrictions.
Scenic R oads
The viewshed from Great Fields Road includes farms, wetlands, a wooded landscape, and some 19th
century domestic architecture. A town plan to straighten and repave the entire road never came to
fruition. The Town could consider adoption of a Scenic Overlay District to help limit development in such
scenic areas.
The Old King’s Highway forms the backbone of the Old King’s Highway Regional Historic District. Many of
the most recognizable landscapes and iconic buildings in Brewster are located along this roadway. In 1973
this was designated as a regional historic district and in 1992 was designated a State Scenic Road by the
state legislature. The town should work with the state to ensure that maintenance and signage does not
further detract from the historic character of the district.
Cottage Colonies
Cottage colonies are located on the north end of town, often near the shore of Cape Cod Bay or along
Route 6A. The primary concern relates to the potential loss of character if these properties are sold
and/or developed. Even within the historic district, there is concern that current regulations may not fully
protect these resources. Additions, new construction and special permits and variances being awarded
are out of character in massing and scale of historic cottages. The preservation of cottage colonies would
help to retain much of Brewster’s historic character and support its economy, which benefits greatly from
the tourism industry. Colonies could be eligible for listing on the National Register. The town could adopt
Neighborhood Architectural Conservation Districts that recognize special areas within a community
where the distinctive characteristics of the neighborhood are important.
Ponds
The more than 80 ponds in Brewster are viewed as a collective landscape feature in the town, covering
more than 10% of the town’s surface area. The ponds have historically and currently sustain cranberry
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 73
operations, are used for recreation, and
some are stocked with fish. The impact
of development and the interrelated
management of the pond ecosystems are
of concern. The challenge is to gain
protection for nearly all the land adjacent
to ponds, which are mostly in private
ownership. And to manage the impacts
of development and phosphorus loading
to ponds. The issues of land and pond
protection require the involvement of
many parties, including the town
department of natural resources, the
conservation commission with the
assistance of the Cape Cod Commission,
DEP and DCR, as well as neighborhood
associations and the Brewster Ponds
Coalition. Possible development of a master plan for ponds and watersheds in Brewster, including
consideration of land acquisition or conservation restrictions for land that is not protected, and
preservation management of land already in conservation, recognizing that if the sources of phosphorus
are not diverted or lessened, the ponds will continue to experience phosphorus overload. It is possible
that, in the future, the state will address phosphorus loading in ponds the same way it has addressed
nitrogen loading in watersheds/estuaries and towns will be required to address these issues.
Stone Walls
Historic stone walls are found throughout Brewster – along scenic roads, in fields where they separate
one pasture or meadow from another, as markers along property boundaries, and lining old cart paths.
These stone walls provide a glimpse back to Brewster’s agricultural beginnings. Today they often mark
property lines, particularly along the town’s scenic roads. The scenic road bylaw provides some protection
for stone walls within the road right-of-way by requiring approval from the planning board for any
demolition or alteration of the walls. These walls are vulnerable to loss in the face of new development.
Here again a Scenic Overlay district could help limit new development in scenic areas with distinctive
stone walls, providing for a no-disturb buffer on private lands. The town could consider creating an
inventory of stone walls and consider them as contributing elements of the national register by amending
it.
Community Events
The town also hosts a number of annual festivals, which treat residents as well as visitors to a vast array
of experiences and build the community’s character.
• The annual Brewster-In-Bloom Festival exemplifies community spirit at its best. There is an arts
and craft show, antique & flea market, golf tournament, road race, art shows, historic inn tours,
demonstrations and open houses at businesses all over town, with a lively parade right down
Main Street to cap the week’s activities. Proceeds from the Bloom have been used to beautify the
Sheep Pond is an example of one of the many glacial kettle ponds
found throughout Brewster.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 74
town with yearly plantings of daffodil bulbs and to provide scholarships to deserving Brewster
students (COC/BTU, 1999). Bloom proceeds are directed toward scholarships for Brewster
students moving on to education beyond high school and to add to the scholarship reserve fund.
The Brewster Chamber of Commerce donates $750 a year to the Recreation Department for
Brewster in Bloom.
• Brewster Conservation Day started
in 2012 by the Town and Brewster
Conservation Trust to celebrate
the community’s natural resources
and organizations dedicated to
saving them. With over 40 unique
presentations, one can learn from
interactive exhibits on
aquaculture, natural plant
gardening, and water resources.
The daylong event celebrating
Brewster’s environmental
wonders draws over 800 visitors.
• Society of Cape Cod Craftsmen’s
Annual Craft Fair at the Drummer Boy Park is in its 55th year.
• Brewster Historical Society Annual Antiques Fair at the Drummer Boy Park. The Society has been
in existence for almost 50 years.
• Annual Brew Run, sponsored by the Wood Shed for the last 29 years, attracts over 1,400 runners
each year. Proceeds are donated to the Brewster Fire Department Emergency Squad and to the
Brewster Police Department.
• Brewster Historical Society Farmer’s Market, held on their property, which is adjacent to the
Drummer Boy Park.
Brewster’s residents highly value the community’s strong sense of place, which is created by its varied
natural features and land use patterns that flow from the fertile land. The town has already taken
measures to document and evaluate its most significant buildings. It now needs to expand its
documentation to include additional resources and even go beyond traditional resources, documenting
landscapes, streetscapes, rural roads, 19th & 20th century neighborhoods and other natural and cultural
assets that define the overall fabric of the community. Like most municipalities, Brewster is facing
multiple pressures for change that threaten land-based uses and natural resources. Special places within
the community that were once taken for granted are now more vulnerable than ever to change
2. Historic C ultural Areas/Archaeological Resources
Historic Cultural resources are an integral part of Cape Cod's past, and Brewster’s early history has been
well documented in the archaeological record.
• Nickerson State Park - Nickerson and its environs are well documented in the archaeological
record.
• Wings Island
• Old Indian Well – adjacent to Quivett Creek
Brewster Conservation Day 2020. Photo credit C. Simmons, Brewster
Conservation Trust
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 75
• Native American burial grounds – adjacent to Quivett Creek
• Only one other Middle Archaic site has been identified in Brewster, near Upper and Lower Mill
ponds. The inland setting of this site is of particular interest, because most pre-Contact sites on
the Cape and Islands are coastal. This site is between Upper and Lower Mill Ponds.
• The Stony Brook Valley - The area was once called “Indian Fields.” Early, Middle, and Late Archaic
archaeological sites along with Woodland sites have been identified, with additional resources
suspected. Eighteenth and nineteenth century sites may also provide archaeological deposits in
the form of privies, wells, and outbuilding remains.
In 1993, Brewster produced an Archaeological Sensitivity Map, with revision/updates in 1996 and 1998,
by the Cape Cod Commission (Appendix C). This map shows areas of:
PRIMARY SENSITIVITY (1,000-Foot Protective Buffer Zone): This generally includes all areas within
1,000 of marine ecosystems, particularly those areas within close proximity to freshwater. These
areas have a high probability of containing prehistoric archaeological sites. The four most
important areas for management consideration based upon available data are: Namskaket Creek
and marsh, the Cape Cod Bay shoreline, Stony Brook Valley, and the major ponds of the Herring
River Drainage System.
SECONDARY SENSITIVITY (500-Foot Protective Buffer Zone): This generally includes all areas
within 500 feet of a water body greater than 3 acres in size that are not a part of the Herring
River or Stony Brook drainage systems. These areas are likely to contain prehistoric
archaeological sites, particularly if they intersect areas of primary sensitivity.
TERTIARY SENSITIVITY: This generally include all areas within a protective zone that skirts
wetlands of any size and water bodies less than three acres in size. Developments that may
disrupt the natural character or inhibit public safety are prohibited in this protective zone. The
delineation of the protection zone is defined in the Town of Brewster’s Wetlands Conservancy
District Bylaw and are subject to the regulations that constitute the Wetlands Protection act,
MGL.c.131, --40, as amended. Archaeological sites may exist within these environments.
Preservation Strategies
Preservation Plan
Brewster should consider creating a Preservation Plan under the auspices of the Planning Department
and the Historical Commission. The plan could include all aspects of preservation activity in Brewster from
administrative policies to survey to ordinances to outreach. Each recommendation should include the
purpose of the action, a description of the tasks involved, a timeframe, a list of resources available, and
who should execute the action. Joint review of the status of each of the recommendations contained in
the plan by the Historical Commission and the Planning Department every five years would be an
excellent way to begin to update the plan and to establish new preservation priorities for the town.
Village and Rural Neighborhood Character
Nearly all preservation strategies address village and neighborhood character in some manner. As
described above, thorough documentation on MHC inventory forms is an important first step in the
preservation planning process, followed by National Register listing where appropriate. One of three
traditional preservation strategies has been adopted by Brewster: a regional historic district bylaw (the
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 76
Old Kings Highway Historic District was created by an Act of the State Legislature in 1973). A demolition
delay bylaw should be adopted by the town. Demolition delay bylaws provide a time period in which
towns can explore alternatives to demolition. A third strategy that may be useful in a mid-20th century
neighborhood or area which has lost some of its historic fabric is a Neighborhood Architectural
Conservation District bylaw and designation.
District of Critical Planning Concern
District of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC) is an area of critical value to Barnstable County which must be
preserved or maintained due to one or more of the following factors: the presence of significant natural
coastal, scientific, cultural, architectural, archaeological, historic, economic or recreational resources or
values of regional, state-wide or national significance; the presence of substantial areas of sensitive
ecological conditions which render the area unsuitable for development; the presence or proposed
establishment of a major capital public facility or area of public investment. DCPCs may cover areas
located in one or more than one town. Districts may be nominated and designated for many purposes.
For example, they may protect a municipal investment, protect a critical natural resource, or provide
incentives for economic development.
Coordinating Open Space, Historic, and Cultural Resource Protection
Coordinating open space protection with that of the historic and cultural resources emphasizes the links
between these resources. Many of the Town’s historic and cultural places are associated with its natural
areas such as ponds, coastal features, and forests. By taking a comprehensive approach to resource
protection and management, the Town not only achieves multiple goals, but gives the community and
visitors to Brewster multiple ways to appreciate and enjoy these resources. As a example, establishing the
Old Kings Highway Historic District preserve historic resources along the roadway as well as open spaces
and scenic views and landscapes.
3. Areas of Critical Environmental Concern
Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) are places in Massachusetts that receive special
recognition because of the quality, uniqueness, and significance of their natural and cultural resources.
These areas are identified and nominated at the community level and are reviewed and designated by the
state’s Secretary of Environmental Affairs. ACEC designation creates a framework for local and regional
stewardship of critical resources and ecosystems.
There are two designated ACECs within the Town of Brewster: the Pleasant Bay ACEC and the Inner Cape
Cod Bay ACEC (Map 11).
The 9,240-acre Pleasant Bay ACEC covers four towns (Orleans, Chatham, Harwich and Brewster), less than
1% of the area being within the Town of Brewster. The Pleasant Bay ACEC was nominated by the
Conservation Commissions, Boards of Selectmen, and Planning Boards from the Towns of Brewster,
Chatham, Harwich, and Orleans and was designated as an ACEC in 1987 because of the area’s
extraordinary natural resources. The boundary for this ACEC generally follows a 100-foot buffer to the 10-
foot contour line and includes wetlands and waterbodies that outflow into Pleasant Bay. Over 1,000 acres
of salt marsh and several hundred acres of tidal flats are found in the ACEC. Other important habitats
include islands, salt and freshwater ponds, rivers, bays, and barrier beaches. These areas provide flood
control, storm damage prevention, improved water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreation opportunities
to surrounding communities.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 77
The 2,600-acre Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC covers three towns (Eastham, Orleans, and Brewster), 15% of
the area being within the Town of Brewster. The Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC was nominated by the
Conservation Commissions, Boards of Selectmen, and Planning Boards from the Towns of Brewster,
Eastham, and Orleans and was designated as an ACEC in 1985 because of the area’s extraordinary natural
resources. The boundary for this ACEC generally follows the 10-foot contour line on the landward side,
and the mean low water on the seaward side, and extends from First Encounter Beach south to include
Namskaket Creek. Included within the ACEC boundary are hundreds of acres of saltmarsh, highly
productive shellfish beds, undisturbed wildlife habitat, barrier beaches, salt ponds, and tidal rivers and
creeks. These areas provide flood control, storm damage prevention, improved water quality, and
recreation opportunities to surrounding communities. Brewster’s coastal resources, which are either
partially or entirely included in the ACEC, include Cape Cod Bay, Namskaket Creek, and the barrier beach
south of Namskaket Creek.
F. Environmental Challenges
Brewster faces a number of environmental challenges that influence open space and recreation planning.
1. Wastewater Management
Pollutants in wastewater impact groundwater quality and can contribute to the degradation of
freshwater ponds and coastal water resources. Nitrogen and phosphorus are the main pollutants of
concern. Nitrogen causes problems with marine resources and phosphorus is the primary pollutant
impacting freshwater ponds. Both nitrogen and phosphorus act as a fertilizer, contributing to excess
growth of aquatic plants and algae, changing natural ecosystems, and leading to the loss of fish and
shellfish habitat.
Pleasant Bay is listed as an Impaired Waterbody for nitrogen by the State of Massachusetts, and a Total
Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) report has been issued by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP) setting nitrogen loads and reductions for both current and buildout conditions within
the Bay’s watershed. Septic systems located within the watershed to Pleasant Bay provide the main
source of nitrogen impacts to the Bay. As such, the Town of Brewster will need to manage nitrogen
loading to the Bay by controlling wastewater sources within the watershed. The Town of Brewster is part
of an inter-municipal, 20-year watershed permit issued by DEP to the four towns with contributing
watersheds to Pleasant Bay: Chatham, Harwich, Orleans, and Brewster. The Pleasant Bay Alliance is
facilitating the nitrogen management and water quality improvement projects for each Town under the
permit, which is in its second year.
Some of Brewster’s Ponds (e.g., The Mill Pond Complex) have historically been degraded by nutrients
(namely, phosphorous) and pathogens coming from the numerous farms, at a time when there was no
vegetative cover or trees to prevent nutrients from entering the ponds. Today septic systems discharging
effluent and fertilized lawns contribute nutrients close to the pond shores. Phosphorus discharged from a
septic system is absorbed by the sediments below the leaching facility, and phosphorus can only move
downgradient from a septic system once sediments below the system have adsorbed all the phosphorus
they can uptake. Therefore, the closer a system is to a pond shore, the more likely that it will be a source
of phosphorus to a pond. Transport of pathogens in groundwater is related to both distance and size.
Transport of bacteria and protozoa from septic systems and groundwater discharge systems is normally
small because these organisms are relatively large compared to soil pores and can be adsorbed to the soil
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 78
particles. However, septic systems near the edge of ponds could be sources of pathogens, especially if the
systems are not functioning correctly.
The town is addressing wastewater management through its Integrated Water Resource Management
Plan. Open space planning can help reduce development potential and the impacts of wastewater -
associated contamination, particularly when required within watersheds to impaired embayments, such
as Pleasant Bay, and within buffer areas to freshwater ponds.
2. Stormwater Management
Stormwater runoff can potentially impact drinking water supplies, ponds, streams and coastal waters.
Proper management of stormwater is critical to the protection of these resources. Stormwater runoff is
the excess precipitation that runs off over the land and discharges to nearby receiving waters such as
streams, ponds, wetlands, and estuaries. Stormwater can impact all of Brewster’s water resources in
different ways. As land development occurs, impervious surfaces block the natural infiltration of
rainwater, thereby reducing the recharge rate and lowering the water table. Increased runoff volumes
and increased peak flows can cause more stream-related flooding and can also modify streambeds with
increased erosion and sedimentation. Water temperature is also increased in streams near impervious
areas. New land uses can introduce pollutants and nutrients that are carried by stormwater to receiving
waters. Ponds are susceptible to phosphorus loads which can exacerbate algae and aquatic plant levels.
Wetlands are susceptible to impacts from stormwater in terms of both hydrology and water quality
changes. Wetlands are very sensitive to water level changes and to alterations in water inputs. Coastal
waters, including estuarine systems, are sensitive to stormwater inputs that alter salinity levels and to
nitrogen loads that promote algae growth and impact eel grass health.
Increased development brings with it an increase in impervious ground cover. The greater the area of
imperviousness, the greater the stormwater impact on water resources. At over 25% impervious area,
receiving waters are highly impaired (NRDC, 1999). Some studies have shown that the health of water
resources is impacted at levels as low as 5 to 7% impervious cover. More recently, even lower impervious
thresholds (1 to 2%) have been found to reduce riverine fish populations in Massachusetts with about 5%
impact on fish for every 1% increase in impervious cover (Armstrong, 2011). While most watersheds are
developed with a variety of land uses, significant residential, commercial, and industrial development
often bring impervious cover levels that exceed ecological stress thresholds.
The town is addressing stormwater management through its Integrated Water Resource Management
Plan. Open space planning that helps to decrease development potential also reduces impervious cover
and associated stormwater pollution. Low impact development (LID) practices, which can be incorporated
into open space and recreation area design, can also be used to treat nitrogen and phosphorus to limit
discharge of these pollutants to freshwater ponds and coastal waters.
3. Groundwater and S urface Water Pollution
The Town has embarked on a comprehensive water planning effort to address concerns and threats to its
water resources in town. It has been actively monitoring pond water quality and has addressed nutrient
management through active remediation and town bylaws.
The Department of Public Works is charged with MS4 compliance and is actively working to minimize
stormwater pollution to our water resources.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 79
4. Coastal Erosion and Flooding
Coastal erosion is a natural process that provides sediment for downdrift marshes, beaches, and dunes.
However, development along the coast has reduced the amount of land available for natural erosion, and
has increased vulnerability to flooding. Sea level rise and the increased frequency and intensity of storm
events resulting from global climate change also exacerbates coastal erosion and flooding, which will be
further discussed below. Coastal erosion threatens public and private property, causes shoaling that
impedes navigation, and increases sediment loading to receiving waters.
Brewster is addressing challenges related to coastal erosion and flooding through its Hazard Mitigation
Plan. Open space planning, particularly protection of vulnerable shorelines from development, can help
mitigate coastal erosion and flooding impacts.
5. Biodiversity and Habitat Fragmentation
Another major impact of development is fragmentation of habitat. Undisturbed, unfragmented forest
interiors are crucial locations for declining populations of breeding Neotropical migrant bird species, such
as Scarlet Tanager, Wood Thrushes, and warblers. Development also brings with it the disruption of
wildlife corridors. Animals which normally were able to safely traverse from one area to another along
protected corridors, are now forced to crossroads to reach food sources, many getting hit by cars in the
process. Other species thrive in fragmented/disrupted habitats, such as Gray Squirrels and raccoons.
Brewster has been working to enhance biodiversity and reduce habitat fragmentation through a number
of approaches, such as promoting Open Space Residential Design subdivisions instead of conventional
subdivisions and encouraging Natural Resource Protection Design within the Water Quality Protection
District. The town can further these efforts through open space planning that prioritizes purchases that
connect existing open spaces and natural areas to extend habitat corridors.
6. Climate Change
Climate change is already affecting the physical and biological environments of the northeast, and is
expected to intensify in coming decades. Temperatures have risen by about 0.7°C over the last century
and are projected to increase by a further 3-5°C under probable emission scenarios. As a consequence of
increasing temperatures, sea level will rise by at least one meter this century, with even greater coastal
impacts from storm surges in areas that have seen major population increases. Increasing temperatures
have also affected altitudinal and range shifts in species, and earlier seasonal migrations for migratory
animals, a trend that will be reinforced further in the future. The northeast region has recorded higher
amounts of precipitation over the last 50 years, with a greater frequency of extreme events and all model
simulations for the future point to wetter winter and spring conditions, but much drier summers and falls.
This will increase overall runoff but shift the timing of peak flows of rivers to earlier in the spring, with
longer periods of low flows in the summer months. All of these changes will have major impacts on
aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems across the region, changing forest types and aquatic environments,
affecting fish community structure and the timing of fish migrations (NECSC, 2012).
Climate change impacts, including projected sea level rise, increased storm frequency and intensity,
wetter springs and drier summers, and shifting habitat conditions should all be taken into account when
planning open space and recreation resources. For example, when protecting coastal areas, sea level
projections should be incorporated into calculations of protection zones. Brewster began mapping areas
impacted by sea level rise in its Integrated Water Resource Management Plan (2013), and the Brewster
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 80
Coastal Resource Management Plan (2019) identified climate scenarios to guide resilient planning
strategies in our vulnerable coastal areas. In addition, Brewster received Municipal Vulnerability
Preparedness designation from the State Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs in 2019
and has been actively pursuing resiliency grants under that program.
It is also important to note that climate change impacts will exacerbate the challenges described above:
wastewater and stormwater management, coastal erosion and flooding, and biodiversity and habitat
fragmentation. For example, sea level rise causing ocean encroachment and groundwater rise could
reduce septic system setbacks from the ocean and less separation from septic drain fields to
groundwater, which could increase the vulnerability of these receiving waters to wastewater-associated
pollution.
Projected impacts of climate change as well as Brewster’s adaptation strategies are described in a
number of Brewster’s local planning documents. For example, projected sea level rise impacts and
adaptation strategies are included in the town’s Integrated Water Resource Management Plan.
Brewster’s Hazard Mitigation Plan incorporates strategies to mitigate projected increased storm
frequency and duration.
7. Hazardous Waste
Over the last several decades, there have been a number of residential oil spills, due to leaks from home
heating oil tanks. These spills have resulted in large excavation of yards, removal of contaminated soils
and replacement with clean soil. Monitoring wells have been installed at each site and reports are
received by the Conservation Commission and Board of Health on a regular basis. There are two plumes
emanating from the Landfill area, which are being carefully monitored and evaluated using monitoring
wells located at appropriate areas within the parcel boundaries and off-site.
Brewster’s Water Quality Protection Bylaw prohibits facilities that generate, treat, store or dispose of
hazardous waste throughout the town (with a few exceptions). It is important for the town to continue to
manage hazardous waste to protect the town’s sensitive water resources.
8. Landfills and Plumes
Brewster’s landfill has been capped and has required annual groundwater monitoring. The facility now is
the Brewster Recycling Center and all solid waste is sent off site for incineration.
9. Solid Waste Disposal
The Brewster solid waste transfer station and recycling center is owned and operated by the town. The
Brewster Department of Public Works (DPW) is located on-site and has several buildings including a salt
storage shed and a highway garage with offices for DPW personnel. The former landfill is also located on-
site, and is shielded by dense, wooded vegetation that exists within the site boundary. The landfill
operations began in the 1940s and ceased accepting waste in 1998. The landfill was capped in 1998-1999,
and post-closure environmental monitoring (groundwater, surface water and soil gas monitoring) is
conducted by the town on an ongoing basis.
Brewster has been exploring ways to reduce the amount of solid waste that is ultimately landfilled
through recycling and composting initiatives. On October 1, 2013 Brewster started a unit-based fee
system (Pay-As-You-Throw-PAYT) for handling the disposal of non-recyclable waste. Only designated
yellow disposal bags are accepted for trash at the transfer station. These are available at local retailers.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 81
Such a unit-based system encourages more recycling by Brewster residents. It also places the costs of
disposal more equitably on those who create the waste.
At Spring 2019 Town Meeting, Brewster voted to ban single-use plastic bags. These bags may not be
offered by Brewster businesses to their customers starting June 1, 2020.
The Town has also changed their Transfer Fee Sticker System. Previously it cost about $100 per family for
a transfer station sticker, with those solely disposing of recyclables entering for free. Now everyone pays
$50 for a sticker, whether they are just dropping off recycling or dropping off regular trash.
10. Forestry Management
As mentioned in Section 4.C above, Brewster has relatively large areas of unfragmented second growth
pine-oak forest compared to other Cape towns. These second growth pine/oak forests have sprung up on
formerly cultivated lands that once were forested, prior to a number of instances of clearing. Many of the
pines and oaks are often 30 to 50 years old, are surrounded by younger trees of the same species and are
found on most undeveloped sites on the Cape. These forest communities continue to change as pines
mature and give way to oaks and other hardwoods.
Due to the maritime influence inherent to Cape Cod, these forests are subject to the damage caused by
salt exposure and intense wind events. Pines are especially susceptible to wind-throw, uprooting, crown
and branch damage. Most winter storms bring the Cape storm surges from the ocean. Periodic
defoliation of trees (especially Oaks) by forest insects such as the gypsy moth or the newly arrived winter
moth increases the exposure of sunlight to the under-story shrubs. This dry and acidic environment slows
the decay of organic matter and leads to accumulation of litter and duff. A report by the USDA Forest
Service indicates that Barnstable County, given its sandy soil, wind conditions and preponderance of pine
and oak trees, is as prone to wildfires as regions of California.
Residential development has increased within the forested urban interface area over the past two
decades resulting in more management issues. The forested land provides important habitat for many
wildlife and plant species and serve also as a water supply and recharge area for the town. Managing the
town forests for their conservation and water source values, as well as reducing wildfire hazards and
protecting public safety are priorities.
Brewster is fortunate to have a number of significantly sized (by Cape standards) unfragmented second
growth forests designated as protected open space. Brewster is moving forward with forest resource
management for these areas.
Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Are a
The Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area, located in the southwestern corner of Town, contains over
800 acres of predominantly Pitch Pine forest, slowly being overtaken by hardwoods, mostly Black oak
with some White Oak. There are a number of small pure stands of Pine Barrens, home to a threatened
species, the Barrens Buck Moth. Important as a forest rebuilder, the Pitch Pine is slowly replenishing the
soil. Other species include American Beech, White Pine and Red Maple. The Punkhorn’s miles of trails
provide for long leisurely walks and possible glimpses of “forest interior” species, such as warblers, vireos,
cuckoos, tanagers and whip-poor-wills, that prefer to dwell in blocks of unbroken woodland.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 82
In 2006 the Wildland Fire Protection and Preparedness Plan for the Punkhorn Parklands Brewster,
Massachusetts was done by Caren A. Caljouw and Seth Wilkinson for the Town of Brewster and the Cape
Cod Cooperative Extension. This Wildland Fire Protection and Preparedness Plan was funded through the
Cape Cod Cooperative Extension in
cooperation with the Town of Brewster,
as part of a county-wide initiative to
address wildfire hazards on town-owned
or town administered open space tracts.
The Town of Brewster nominated the
Punkhorn Parklands as its highest priority
for wildfire assessment and preparedness
planning. It is Brewster’s largest
contiguous conservation property and
consists of mixed oak and pitch pine
forest, which contains highly flammable
and heavy fuel accumulations.
Residential development has increased
within this interface area over the past
two decades, warranting assessment of
wildfire risks and hazardous fuels.
Based on the primary management goal
to reduce wildfire hazards within the
Punkhorn Parklands through an
integrated and proactive land
management program, the following
objectives and strategies were
established.
1. Use prescribed burning and
mechanical methods to reduce
fuel loadings within priority fire-
prone areas of the Punkhorn
Parklands.
2. Maintain the integrity of dirt roads and access points to provide for rapid response, fire
suppression, and fire breaks.
3. Provide neighboring landowners with information regarding fire hazards and recommendations
to protect life and property from wildfire.
4. Employ best management practices during the course of vegetation management to maintain
and enhance biological diversity in varying seral stages of the vegetation.
5. Offer prescribed burn training opportunities on these properties, emphasizing basic wildland fire
behavior, fire suppression, ignition techniques, and safety procedures.
6. Develop prescriptions for priority fuel reduction zones and other management units.
7. Establish team of land managers and fire professionals for Punkhorn Parklands to determine
implementation schedule and guide management actions.
Trail in Punkhorn Parklands. Photo credit: Bonnie Newman,
Brewster Conservation Trust
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 83
All recommendations outlined in this plan could not be implemented immediately. Limitations of
technical resources, sequencing of actions, and limited funding resources required that priorities be
established. Those actions deemed most critical to reducing very hazardous fuel loads and providing for
public safety were to be addressed first. With grants received from Barnstable County the Town
purchased a tractor and equipment for mechanical treatment of areas in the Punkhorn staff has cut
vegetation in various areas to reduce fire hazards.
Nickerson State Park
Nickerson State Park, located at the eastern end of town, has over 1,888 acres of woodlands and ponds.
One of the most popular parks in the state, it has salt and fresh-water beaches, miles of trails for walking,
hiking and horse-back riding, 420 campsites, and boating and swimming access. The State has their own
fire management plan and Brewster does not participate, except to respond to any calls for fire
suppression assistance.
Mother’s Bog/Slough Road Woodlands
Mother’s Bog/Slough Road Woodlands comprise 80 acres off Slough Road. In 2012, using a grant from
Barnstable County, a DCR Forestry Management Plan was prepared by Joel R. Carlson, Licensed Mass.
Forester. This property is abutted by open space to the west and south. To the east and north are
residential areas.
Permitted uses and activates that pertain to forest management on the property include the
maintenance and use of roads and trails for passive recreational purposes, passive public recreational
use, development of limited facilities related to passive recreational use, the planting and cutting of trees
and shrubs and removal of invasive species when following an approved management plan and best
management practices, installation of water monitoring wells, and wildlife enhancement projects after
consultation with the conservation easement.
The property is located within the Town of Brewster’s Fire Management Suggested Focus Area 3, as
identified by the 2012 Barnstable County Wildfire Preparedness Plan, and is classified as being an area of
High Wildland Fire Hazard. Suggested management actions for Focus Area 3 are fuel treatments and/or
structural ignitability reduction strategies.
Portions of the property have been designated by the Massachusetts DEP as protected wetlands,
primarily in the area of the former cranberry bog. The Massachusetts NHESP has designated a small
section in the northern portion of the property as Priority Rare Species Habitat. Additionally, the
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife has identified all of the property as being within the
BioMap2 Core Habitat, Critical Natural Landscape, Species of Conservation Concern, and Core Natural
Landscape Block designated areas. These are considered areas crucial to protecting the biodiversity and
land identified as critical to protecting the state’s long-term viability of rare species, common species, and
natural communities.
The trees on the property are predominantly pitch pine (Pinus rigida) and oak consisting of black oak
(Quercus velutina) and white oak (Quercus alba). Understory vegetation is primarily comprised of
blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) and scattered black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata). Forest health
is good throughout the property. No evidence of recent wildfire, significant wind events, or insect
infestations has been observed. Limited invasive plant species occur on the property.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 84
The primary property goals are to: protect water quality; promote biological diversity; enhance habitat for
birds; enhance habitat for small animals; enhance habitat for large animals; preserve or improve scenic
beauty; and reduce fire hazard.
Objectives (in part for various areas) include:
1. Maintain the current natural community type within its natural range of variability.
2. Allow to transition and mature into pine forest.
3. Reduce the presence of invasive species and maintain the current open field.
4. Allow to transition and revert back to a forest wetland system.
Management practices recommended to be done within the next 10 years include:
1. General Property Management: Identify property boundaries and prevent un-authorized
activities and encroachment.
2. Wildland Fire Hazard Reduction: Increase firefighter and public safety by decreasing wildland fire
risk in and around the property and reduce the threat of wildfire to property and life on lands
adjacent to the property using education and awareness programs. *Educate property owners
regarding defensible space, hazards of wildfire and prevention measures to protect life and
property. (200-250 residences)
3. Wildland Fire Hazard Reduction: Increase firefighter and public safety by decreasing wildland fire
risk in and around the property. *Improve dirt road access and egress for public and emergency
vehicles and reduced potential for erosion.
4. Ecosystem and Wildlife Habitat preservation.
5. Reduce Invasive Species.
Wing’s Island
Wing’s Island is north of Route 6A, on Paine’s Creek. Starting in 2004, the Town received a Wildlife
Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) grant from NRCS. Wilkinson Ecological Design mowed the field and
made 17 burn piles for a future burn as part of a habitat protection and fire prevention strategy.
In 2005, the Town was awarded a Barnstable County Land Management Grant for $7,500. The Town
hired Vince Olivier to supervise AmeriCorps and work with the Cape Cod National Seashore burn crew to
perform a prescribed burn. Twelve piles were burned along with 2.5 acres. Mechanical mowing was then
performed and the area was then seeded with warm season native grasses. Trail repairs were completed
with granite curbing and repairs were done to the boardwalk.
Since then, the Brewster Department of Natural Resources has managed the field, utilizing a tractor to
periodically mow the 10 acres, coupled with periodic controlled burns in coordination with Americorps
and the Seashore burn team.
Volunteers from Americorps, the Brewster Conservation Trust and the Brewster FLATS group have
worked to remove invasive species from this and many other conservation areas around town.
Bakers Pond Conservation Area
Bakers Pond Conservation Area is located west of Nickerson State Park and borders Bakers Pond, a
resource largely in Orleans. These 39.29 forested acres, another predominantly Pitch Pine forest, also
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 85
contain a 10.70-acre Cedar Swamp. No forestry management plan has been established for this
conservation area.
Sheep Pond Woodlands
Sheep Pond Woodlands, 52 acres located in the middle of town off of Route 137, adjacent to a State Cape
Cod Rail Trail parking lot, is another predominantly Pitch Pine forest. No forestry management plan has
been established for this conservation area. As funds are available over the next few years, the Town
anticipates completing a forestry management plan for all conservation areas.
11. Invasive Species
The Massachusetts Invasive Plant Advisory Group (MIPAG) defines invasive plants as “non-native species
that have spread into native or minimally managed plant systems in Massachusetts.” These plants cause
economic or environmental harm by developing self-sustaining populations and becoming dominant
and/or disruptive to those systems.
Already, invasive non-native organisms have contributed to the decline of 42% of our federally listed
threatened and endangered species (Nature Conservancy).
12. Environmental Equity
Brewster does not have significant populations meeting the income and minority criteria used by the
2010 MassGIS work that identifies and maps environmental justice populations for all communities in
Massachusetts. As described in Section 3.C.5, the criteria used for identifying environmental justice
populations include:
• Income – households earn 65% or less of the statewide median income
• Minority – 25% or more of residents are minority
• Foreign Born – 25% or more of residents are foreign born
• Lacking English Proficiency – 25% or more residents are lacking in English proficiency
There are no populations identified based on either minority classification or based on the income data
layer. However, there are certainly populations in Brewster whose income is at poverty level, 10.9% as of
2011 per STATS Cape Cod. According to a report entitled Monitoring the Human Condition 2009 prepared
by the Barnstable County Department of Human Services, the following populations of need are found in
the County, and in Brewster:
• Low-income young households with one to two children who rent their home and may receive
some financial assistance
• Low-income young to middle-age households with at most one child who rent, are homeless or
live in a group home
• Low-income young to middle-age households with no more than one child who rent, are
homeless or live in a group home. These households also may be cultural minorities, receiving
financial assistance, or chronically ill. This group is considered by the report as the most needy
among Cape Cod households.
There do not appear to be specific low economic population pockets, but populations may be spread in
all areas of town. In setting priorities and allocating resources for open space and recreation facilities and
programs the town has made sure that adequate open space and recreation areas are spread throughout
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 86
the town. Since the 1984 OSRP was first developed, there has been community involvement in planning
and environmental decision-making to maintain and/or enhance the environmental quality of all
neighborhoods.
Location of Conservation & Recreations Areas throughout Brewster:
• North West Brewster –Quivett Marsh Vista, Drummer Boy Park & Recreation area,
• South West Brewster – Mother’s Bog and Meetinghouse Road Conservation Areas, Punkhorn
Parklands
• Central Brewster – Sheep Pond Woodlands, Long Pond Woodlands Conservation Area, Stony
Brook and Eddy Elementary Schools Fields and Tennis Courts & Town Hall recreation fields
• North East Brewster – Bakers Pond Conservation Area
• East Brewster – Nickerson State Park
• South East Brewster - Read Kingsbury Conservation Area & Freeman’s Way Recreations fields
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 87
SECTION 5. INVENTORY OF LANDS OF
CONSERVATI ON AND RECREATION
INTEREST
The Captain’s Golf Course
A. Introduction
1. What is Open Space?
"Open space" refers to the “green infrastructure” of a community: undeveloped land areas that have
important ecological functions, natural resources, or cultural resources that are worthy of conservation
and protection. Such areas may contain, but are not limited to, forests, farmland, old fields, floodplains,
wetlands, and shorelands. Open space can also encompass scenic vistas, small parks, green buffers along
roadways, corridor parks, recreational areas, and historic sites. Open space is precious, and opportunities
to obtain open space lands decrease as time goes on.
Open space provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and education. Use of open space varies and
includes both active and passive recreation. Active recreation such as tennis, baseball, golf, and ice
skating, usually require special facilities and make intensive use of land. Passive recreation activities such
as hiking, fishing, bird watching, and picnicking take place in more natural parks. Such parks are used
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 88
extensively and demand is increasing. Passive activities increase public understanding of our relationship
to the environment and the value of protecting natural resources.
Agricultural areas provide pleasant scenery and are an important component of a community’s rural
character. They are well-suited for many types of recreational activities, as well as being very important
for wildlife habitat. In addition, agricultural pursuits, such as cranberry production, are often identified as
a key component of community character, especially in communities undergoing rapid growth. The
remaining farms in such communities take on added importance in defining community “place”.
Forested open space is a major renewable resource providing both commodities (e.g., wood products)
and non-commodity benefits (e.g., water resource protection, wildlife habitats). Forests have a significant
effect on the rate at which water will reach the ground, run off into surface waters, and infiltrate the
earth’s surface. They also act to moderate temperatures in their immediate vicinity. They can provide
nearby houses with cooling shade in the summer and can decrease the cold winds in the winter. Hence,
forests can reduce home heating and cooling costs to some degree. In addition, forests act as filters by
removing particulates and absorbing carbon dioxide from the air.
A rich forest wildlife habitat has a variety of vegetative cover types for browsing, resting, nesting and
hiding. Most animals inhabit several different landscape types, including meadows, dense underbrush,
and open woods, which provide food and shelter. The greater the number of interfaces between
landscape types, the greater abundance of wildlife habitat. Throughout much of Cape Cod, patterns of
forested land alternate with developed land, and give the overall region its rural character.
2. What is “Protected” Property?
The Town of Brewster has taken great effort to help preserve and enhance the quantity and quality of
open space and recreational holdings throughout the town. Protected open space or permanently
restricted lands include those acquired by conservation restrictions, trust and gifts, town purchases, and
tax takings. The town includes within its boundaries over 2,200 acres of large State and non-profit open
space and recreational holdings, such as Nickerson State Park, State acquired Camp Monomoy land,
Brewster Conservation Trust lands, Orenda Wildlife Trust and the Rail Trail. In addition, about 80
freshwater ponds cover some 1,700 acres. Other lands which enhance the open space in the town
include those which are associated with public buildings, e.g., Elementary Schools, Old Town Hall,
Fire/Police Station, Town Hall, Agricultural, and Chapter 61B land.
3. Importance of Protecting Open Space
There has always been a strong sentiment among Brewster’s residents to protect the rural small coastal
community atmosphere, the scenic and historic character. Preservation of open space has consistently
been a top priority since the 1970s. As land disappears, the town loses a portion of its character, history
and main tourism draw: open space and recreation areas. The preservation of agricultural and woodland
resources, historic sites and structures, and other remaining open spaces is a top priority, both as a
reminder of Brewster’s history and earlier character, and for protection of natural and scenic resources.
The value of open space can also be quantified in monetary terms. Aside from the obvious environm ental
considerations, there are important economic benefits to open space such as the reduction of costs for
maintenance of additional infrastructure and services required by residential development; the cost
avoidance of the contamination of natural resources; property enhancements due to additional property
value adjacent to open space or permanently protected properties as well as retention of community
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 89
character. It is not uncommon for the value of building sites to be enhanced by 15 to 20%+ in the vicinity
of park and recreation areas (BNHM, 1998). The increased value to the landowner is also shared by the
municipality, because as relative property values are higher, then assessed valuations and tax revenues
will also be higher.
In addition, communities on Cape Cod increasingly consider the “opportunity cost” of losing open space
to development, especially residential development. An acre of open space can generate much more
revenue to the town than it “consumes” in town services, while an acre of residential development
consumes at least 15% more in services than it generates in taxes.
B. Private Parcels
Privately owned parcels include all land that is not owned by a municipal, state, or federal agency. These
parcels represent a large proportion of land in Brewster. This land may be used for commercial or
residential purposes. Private lands that have specific open space and/or recreation values are widely
considered the most valuable properties in town – financially, ecologically and socially – and are therefore
coveted for both development and preservation. In Brewster, and across the entire region, where vacant
developable land is relatively scarce and the competition for this land is intense, land values have
skyrocketed. Recognizing the need to prioritize land protection efforts, various initiatives and lists have
been developed over the years by conservation groups to help focus their efforts and money. Some of
these land protection initiatives are facilitated by local and state governments, such as the state’s
Wetlands Protection Act, Chapter 61 programs, the Cape Cod Commission and the town's Open Space
Committee. Others are run by regional private non-profit groups such as The Compact of Cape Cod
Conservation Trusts and its consortium of land trusts, including the Brewster Conservation Trust. For each
of these groups, land has been either loosely or systematically prioritized for protection based on
predetermined criteria. Most of these privately generated lists are confidential and kept behind closed
doors, used only for preservation purposes, in an attempt to avoid their potential misuse. Therefore, they
are not included in this Plan. Table 5.1 summarizes the private parcels that are considered significant for
open space and recreation.
Table 5.1. Significant Privately Owned Parcels as of 6-2020
Acres Zoning Condition
Recreation
Potential
Public
Access Protection
Golf Courses (195.06 acres)
South Orleans Road-Cape Cod
National 66.16 RM Good Yes Yes - fee No
Villages Drive-Ocean Edge 128.9 RL Good Yes Yes - fee No
Tennis Courts (0.94 acres)
Center Street 0.94 RM Good Yes Private No
Riding Stables (18.79 acres) Non-Chapter 61B
Commercial Street 3.01 CH Good Yes Private-fee No
Freemans Way 15.78 RR Good Yes Private-fee No
Youth Camps (201.96 acres)
Crowells Bog Road-Camp
Favorite-Girl Scouts 47 Good Yes Private - fee Partial-
Temporary
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 90
Acres Zoning Condition
Recreation
Potential
Public
Access Protection
Featherbed Lane-Camp Mitton-
Crossroads 30 Good Yes Private-fee No
Long Pond Road-Camp Wono 70.04 RM Good Yes Private-fee No
Main Street-Cape Cod Sea
Camps 54.92 RM Good Yes Private - fee No
Mini-Golf (0.77 acres)
Underpass Road 0.77 CH Good Yes Private - fee No
Chapter 61 Forest Land (22.35 acres)
South Orleans Road Rear-
Private tree farm (Grover) 22.35 RR/I Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Chapter 61A Farm Land (129.99 acres)
Blue Jacket Way (Ahlstrom) 7.41 RM Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Cranview Road (Casey) 5.45 RR Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Cranview Road (Davenport) 22.67 RR Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Eldridge Road & Western Eagle
Cartway (Allard) 14.89 VB/RM Good No Patrons Partial -
Temporary
Jackson Road (Caritas) 7.06 RR Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Main Street (Brown) 8.53 CH Good No Patrons Partial -
Temporary
Main Street (CBI) 6.80 RM Good No Patrons Partial -
Temporary
Long Pond Road/Cape Lane
(Crocker) Commercial
Greenhouse
5.11 CH/RM Good No Patrons Partial -
Temporary
Long Pond Road (Mangelinkx) 5.0 RM Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Main Street (Merchant) 5.0 RR Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Point-of-Rocks Road /Cathedral
Road (Latham) 19.44 Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Serenity Lane (Jenkins)
Namskaket Farm 21.12 RR Good No Patrons Partial -
Temporary
WH Besse Cartway (Eten) 1.5 RR Good No Private Partial -
Temporary
Chapter 61B Recreational Land (74.07 acres)
Hamilton Cartway (Malkus) 5.923 RR Good No Open Space
Private No
Lund Farm Way (Avery) 5.56 RM Good Yes Riding No
Main Street (Shady Knoll) 6.75 RM Good Yes Campground No
Harwich Road (Woodfield
LLC/Sweetwater Forest) 45.70 RM Good Yes Campground No
Run Hill Road (Sheridan) 5.0 RR Good Yes Riding No
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 91
Acres Zoning Condition
Recreation
Potential
Public
Access Protection
WH Besse Cartway (Eten) 5.14 RR Good No Open Space
Private No
1. Agricultural Lands
As identified in Table 5.1, there are several farm properties in Brewster, which are partially protected
under Chapter 61A. These farm properties include field crops, truck crops, cranberry bogs, and others.
The agricultural and horticultural land classification program under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter
61A is designed to encourage the preservation of the state’s valuable farmland and promote active
agricultural and horticultural land use. It offers significant local tax benefits to property owners willing to
make a long-term commitment to farming. In exchange for these benefits, the city or town in which the
land is located is given the right to recover some of the tax benefits afforded the owner when the land is
removed from classification and an option to purchase the property should the land be sold or used for
any purpose other than to continue raising farm products.
As of 2013, there were 61.52 acres under Chapter 61A Farm Land. As of June 2020, there are 129.99
acres, more than double. The Agricultural Commission is glad to see an increased and active interest in
farming and farmland preservation.
2. Forested Lands
As noted in Section 4, there are large areas of unbroken woodland in Brewster. Much of this is protected
within public conservation areas while other pockets are privately owned. As identified in Table 5.1, there
are about 22.351 acres of forested land in Brewster protected under Chapter 61. The forest land
classification program under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 61 is designed to encourage the
preservation and enhancement of the state’s forests. It offers significant local tax benefits to property
owners willing to make a long-term commitment to forestry. In exchange for these benefits, the city or
town in which the land is located is given the right to recover some of the tax benefits afforded the owner
when the land is removed from classification and an option to purchase the property should the land be
sold or used for non-forestry uses.
3. Private Lands Significant for Water Resource Protection
The entire Cape is significant for water resource protection due to the presence of a single underground
sole source aquifer and the abundance of surface water resources. Surface water resources include salt
and freshwater bodies and wetland habitats of all kinds. Map 7 identifies lands that contribute to the
town’s drinking water supply and are therefore significant for protection. Much of the land within these
contribution areas is privately-owned.
4. Priority Areas for Protection of Rare Species
As described in Sections 4D and 4E, Brewster is home to a number of rare and endangered plant and
wildlife species. The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) has mapped areas that
are considered priority and/or estimated habitat for these species. These areas are of critical importance
to the protection of rare and endangered species. Map 10 shows where these habitat areas exist in
Brewster.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 92
5. Conservation Restrictions and other Less than Fe e Interests
It is not commonly known that land purchased or designated and used for conservation purposes is not
always protected from development in perpetuity. The best way to ensure a parcel’s perpetual protection
is to place language in the deed to that effect. Such language is known as a “conservation restriction,”
and is one of the major land protection tools being used today. This conservation restriction may be
owned by a non-profit land trust or another non-profit organization including the town itself; it does not
necessarily have to be held by the owner of the land. In many cases, a land trust may hold a conservation
restriction on land that is owned by a private landowner or even on land that is owned by a town or state.
Conservation restrictions may vary in duration; to ensure perpetual protection, a permanent conservation
restriction is necessary.
Most of Brewster's conservation restrictions are held by the Brewster Conservation Trust, discussed later
in Section 5C. The State holds a Conservation Restriction on the Town-owned Quivett Marsh.
Conservation restrictions are the easiest and most reliable means of ensuring the perpetual protection of
land. As it has in the past, the town should work in conjunction with the Brewster Conservation Trust to
acquire conservation restrictions on all unprotected municipal lands even if they are currently designated
as conservation and recreation land and on any privately owned land that exhibits conservation values
including wetland resource areas.
6. Pri vate Recreation Lands
In 2013, there were 93.78 acres under Chapter 61B Recreational Land. As of June 2020, there are 74.07
acres. The reduction is due to two town purchases. One, 6.53 acres on the Robinson property, was part of
the Town’s 43-acre Long Pond Woodlands open space acquisition. The second change was the Town’s
purchase of 22.74 acres on Tubman Road, which had been the Basset Wild Animal Farm. This land was
offered to Habitat for Humanity Cape Cod to produce affordable housing. Six homes were built on Paul
Hush Way in 2018, with eight more being built in 2020.
Much of the listed recreational land is comprised of campgrounds. The recreational land classification
program under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 61B is designed to encourage the preservation of
the Commonwealth’s valuable open space and promote recreational land uses. It offers significant local
tax benefits to property owners willing to make a long-term commitment to preserving land in an
undeveloped condition or for use for outdoor activities. In exchange for these benefits, the city or town in
which the land is located is given the right to recover some of the tax benefits afforded the owner and an
option to purchase the property should the land be sold or used for any purpose other than to maintain it
as open space or for recreational use.
7. Other Resources, Estates, Major Institutional Holdings
Other private properties that offer recreational amenities include a variety of youth camps, horseback
riding stables and other resources (See Table 5.1). There are also 18 church-owned parcels in Brewster
with a combined total of 72.54 acres. These churches represent historic, scenic and in some cases open
space resources. Where appropriate, the town should seek conservation restrictions on the undeveloped
green areas of these church parcels.
In addition, the Ocean Edge Conference Center, housed in the former Nickerson Estate, more recently La
Salette Seminary, is a private resort facility that provides an excellent resource for community activities
including weddings, lawn parties, and other events. Its importance as a culturally scenic and historic
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 93
property cannot be overlooked and its continued protection and operation as such should be
encouraged.
8. Developable Land
The Town of Brewster commissioned a buildout analysis in 2012 in order to allow the community to test
existing regulations and envision its possible future when land is developed to the maximum extent
allowable. This analysis also identified lands that are most vulnerable to development. The buildout
analysis included two scenarios: a “baseline scenario”, remised on utilization of existing zoning, with no
consideration for environmental impacts beyond existing regulations, and a “smart growth” scenario, also
premised on utilization of existing zoning, but incorporating an innovative, environmentally-based
approach that promotes conservation and utilizes Cluster Residential Development. Both scenarios
identified about 15.23 acres of commercial development and 64.43 acres of industrial development
under buildout conditions. The baseline scenario yielded 718 new residential units, whereas the smart
growth scenario yielded 797 new residential units. However, the smart growth scenario identified 455
acres of permanently preserved open space utilizing Cluster Residential Development regulations, which
is over 100 more acres than that proposed under the baseline scenario.
The town does not have updated buildout numbers. The Local Comprehensive Plan process is tasked with
developing that data and it is in the initial stages.
C. Public and Nonprofit Parcels
The Town of Brewster has cooperated with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Brewster
Conservation Trust, The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc., Orenda Wildlife Trust and
adjacent town governments and non-profits in establishing thousands of acres of land dedicated to
conservation in their natural state. A matrix of municipally owned conservation and recreation lands is
provided in Appendix D. These facilities are also shown in Map 12.
1. Town Conservation Commission Land and Facilities
According to the Town Assessor’s Database, The Brewster Conservation Commission owns and manages
about 822 acres of conservation land within the Town of Brewster. Properties owned and managed by
the Brewster Conservation Commission are summarized in Appendix D and depicted visually in Map 12.
The Town of Brewster also maintains at least 1,000 acres of “other municipally-owned and managed
conservation lands,” which are owned and managed by other town agencies, such as the Select Board.
Many of these lands have been managed and maintained by the Conservation Commission/ Department
of Natural Resources for years, even though they were not under their custody and control. The Town
reviewed the deeds and town meeting articles for all of these lands and many parcels were transferred to
the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Brewster Conservation Trust now holds a
Conservation Restriction on all the parcels that were transferred to the Conservation Commission. This
process is not quite finished yet. It is anticipated to be completed over the next several years, after which
all town lands will be under the custody and control of the correct department.
Esri, HERE, Garmin, INCREMENT P,
NGA, USGS
Quivet Neck and
Crowe's Pasture
Conservation Area
Brewster
Trails
Punkhorn
Parklands
John Wing
Trail
Spruce Hill
Conservation area
Nickerson
State Park
D. Isabel Smith
Monomoy River
Conservation Lands
Hawksnest State
Conservation Lands
Paw Wah Point
Conservation Area
Bakers Pond
Conservation
Area
Eddy Bay
TrailEddy Sisters
Trail
Lee
Baldwin
Trail
Calf Field
Pond Trail
Seymour
Pond Trail
Sheep Pond
WoodlandsJohn + Kristy
Hay Trail
Captains
Golf Course
Cape Cod
National
Golf Course
Punkhorn
Parklands
Mant's
Landing
Drummer Boy Park
Saints
Landing
Point of
Rocks Beach
Ellis Landing
Linnell
Landing
Crosby Lane
Landing
Cape Cod Museum
of Natural
History
Brewster Historical
Society
Museum
Ocean Edge
Mansion
Crosby
Mansion
The Brewster Store
Stoney Brook
Grist Mill
Pine Grove
Cemetery
Brewster
Cemetery
Sears
Cemetery
First Parish/Breakwater
Cemetery
Indian Spring
Old
Town Hall/Senior Center
Captain Mayo
House/Brewster Ladies
Library
Cape Cod
Sea Camps
Cape Rep
Theatre
Brewster
Cottages
Community
Gardens
Paine's Creek
Wing Island
Breakwater
Landing
Spruce Hill
Pine Pond
Landing
Slough Pond
Landing
Schoolhouse
Pond
Elbow Pond
Upper Mill
Pond Landing
Lower
Mill
Pond
Walker Pond
Herring Run
Seymour Pond
Sheep Pond
Long Pond
Landing
Mill Pond
Cons. Area
Long Pond
Woodlands
Bakers Pond
WindmillQuivett
Marsh
Vista
Brewster
Flats
Meetinghouse
Road
Conservation
Mothers Bog
Eddy Bay
Trail
Overlook
¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster Protected Open Space and Recreation Type of Ownership
State
Municipal
Non-Profit; Private
Public Access
Limited Public Access
Full Public Access
Parcel Boundaries
Trailheads
Adjacent Town
Map 12
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 95
2. Town Recreation Department Land and Facilities
The Brewster Recreation Department owns and manages two properties within the Town of Brewster: a
recreation area including a new outdoor tennis facility at Underpass Road (approximately 5.8 acres) and
athletic fields at Recreation Drive (approximately 26 acres). These Recreation Department properties are
summarized in Appendix D and depicted visually in Map 12. The Recreation Department also provides
recreation services and programs on a number of other properties, including but not limited to:
• Breakwater Beach
• Upper Mill Pond
• Long Pond
• Programs at the Orleans Ice Skating Rink
• Drummer Boy Park
• Eddy Elementary School
• Stony Brook Elementary School/White
Caps Baseball Field
• Nauset Regional High School (in North
Eastham)
• Nauset Regional Middle School
• Nickerson State Park
• Town Hall Fields
• Freeman’s Way Fields
• Gage’s Fields
• Finch Skate Park Orleans-Run by
Brewster, Orleans & Eastham (Town pays
$1,400/year to use) Nauset Together We
Can also facilitates a lot of fundraising and
improvements
• COA Building
• Tennis Courts
• Captain’s Golf Course
• Driving Range
Playground at Eddy Elementary School
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 96
The Recreation Department is made up of two full time staff members, the director and assistant
director, as well as year-round part-time staff and program instructors. During the summer, the
department employs an additional 30-40 seasonal employees. They host a website for information and
registrations at www.brewsterrecreation.com.
The Recreation Department offers a variety of recreation programs and activities for all ages, from
toddlers to seniors. Programming examples are provided as follows; however actual programs offered
may vary from this list.
Spring: Senior Fitness, Senior Striders, Senior Tennis, Adult Cardio Tennis, Pickup Basketball, Youth
Baseball & Softball, Youth Tennis, Farm League Baseball, Baseball Clinics, Lacrosse Clinics, Softball
Clinics, Soccer Clinics, Archery Classes, Track & Field, Kids Fitness, Ultimate Frisbee Program-grades 3-
5, Family Fishing Clinic, Tee Ball, Toddler Games, Brewster in Bloom 5K Run, Pickleball Clinics and
drop-in, DIY Projects, Men’s Basketball, Senior Games,
Summer: Summer Rec Program, Adult Tennis, Adult Fitness Boot Camp, Senior Tennis, Stand Up
Paddle-boarding (Youth & Adult), Yoga classes on the beach, Soccer clinics, Swimming, Youth Tennis,
Basketball, Archery classes, Baseball, Golf instruction, Kayak Rentals, Science programs, Playground
Program, Sailing (Youth and adult), Skippers-jump rope instruction, Baseball, Pickleball Clinics, Men’s
Basketball, Tennis, Swimming and Sailing Lessons, Mad Science Classes, Dance Instruction, Turbo
Tennis for Adults, Pickup Basketball, DIY Projects, SUP Classes, Track Program, Senior Tennis, Field
Trips to Orleans Skating Rink
Fall: Senior Tennis, Adult Tennis, Soccer, Youth Tennis lessons, Baseball, Skippers, Flag Football, Field
Hockey clinic, Golf driving range, Science programs, Adult & Youth Yoga, Senior Fitness, Senior
Striders, Pickleball clinics and drop-in,, Archery Classes, Run Club, Pickup Basketball, DIY Projects,
Men’s Basketball, Run, Pass and Kick Contest, Stony Brook Sports Month, Senior Games
Winter: Men’s Basketball, Senior Striders, Dodgeball, Floor Hockey, Youth Basketball, DIY Projects,
Handball, Pillow (grades1-2) and Floor (grades 3-5) Hockey, Bayside Skippers, Pickleball Drop-in
Program, Adult Basketball Drop-in Program, Pickup Basketball, Snow Shoe Excursion and Rentals,
Indoor Soccer and Futsal Programs, Breakfast with Santa, HotShots Competition, Yoga
Community Events: Breakfast with Santa, Ice Rink, Brewster in Bloom Events: Bloom 5K Run, Easter
Egg Hunt, Summer Kick Off Party, Movie Night by the Bay, Parents’ Night Out, HotShot Basketball
Shootout, Senior Games
3. Other Municipal Open Space and Recreation Land and Facilities
In addition to the lands and facilities owned and managed by the Conservation Commission and
Recreation Department, there are lands and facilities owned by other municipal departments that serve
open space and recreation needs, such as:
• Cemeteries
• Brewster Water Department properties
• Council on Aging property
• Public beaches and landings
• Drummer Boy Park
• The Herring Run
• The Mill Site
• Captain’s Golf Course
• Public athletic fields and other recreation
facilities
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 97
Cemeteries
Brewster has seven cemeteries: Pine Grove, Brewster Memorial, Sears, First Parish/Breakwater,
Dillingham, Red Top, and Lincoln/Foster. Plots are sold through the Department of Public Works for
Brewster Memorial Cemetery, which contains an area for green burial as well as one for vaulted burials.
Four cremations may be placed in each plot, but only one headstone may be used or in the case of a
green burial site, a flat stone is used.
The Brewster Cemetery Commission is actively involved with restoration work in First Parish/Breakwater,
Sears, and Lincoln/Foster. There are no more plots to be sold in Pine Grove and returned plots will be
used as open space and not placed on the market.
Brewster Water Department Properties
The Brewster Water Department owns and manages approximately 363 acres of land in Brewster. Most
of this land has been acquired for protection of drinking water.
Council on Aging Building
The Council on Aging building, built in 1893 as the Town Hall, is situated on a 1.83 acre parcel. The
Council on Aging is housed in this building and it also serves as a recreational resource for seniors in
Brewster, offering social events, such as regular luncheons and educational courses and activities, such as
computer classes and gardening sessions. A Bocce court has been added on one side of the building. The
Council on Aging staff help link Brewster’s seniors to services and give support (Town of Brewster,
2013b).
Public Beaches and Landings
Access to the Cape Cod Bay exists along Brewster's shoreline, with several roads leading north of Route
6A to the beaches. There are ten (10) saltwater public beach/landing points, none of which have
lifeguards. The majority of these are less than 100 feet
wide and are maintained by the Brewster Department of
Public Works under the direction of the Town Manager,
Select Board, Conservation Commission, and the Natural
Resources Department.
The public beach/land points all afford spectacular vistas
of the flats and Cape Cod Bay, and include:
• Crosby Landing (Crosby Lane)
• Linnell Landing (Linnell Landing Road)
• Spruce Hill Beach (Main Street)
• Ellis Landing (Ellis Landing Road)
• Point of Rocks Landing (Point of Rocks Road)
• Breakwater Beach (Breakwater Road)
• Breakwater Landing end of Breakwater Road)
• Saints Landing (Robbins Hill Road)
• Mant’s Landing (Robbins Hill Road)
• Paine’s Creek Beach (Paine’s Creek Road)
Exploring at Payne’s Creek. Photo credit:
William DeSousa-Mauk, MA Office of Travel and
Tourism
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 98
• Wing Island Beach (Behind the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, off Main Street)
Brewster's shoreline is a six mile stretch of sandy/pebble beach. At low tide, the mud flats extend out
more than ¾ of a mile. Cape Cod Bay waters and beaches tend to be calmer than beaches on the south
side of the Cape. Recreational activity along Brewster's shoreline consists of boating, swimming, fishing,
shellfishing and other aquatic recreational activities. Town beaches require parking stickers from mid-
June through Labor Day.
The Town also has a number of freshwater beaches/access points:
• Long Pond (Crowells Bog Road) – beach, lifeguard on duty from July 4 through Labor Day
Weekend, daily from 9-4 PM
• Sheep Pond (Fisherman’s Landing) – beach and viewing platform
• Upper Mill Pond (Run Hill Road) – no beach, boat ramp and viewing platform
• Slough Pond (Slough Road) – access, no beach
• Walkers Pond (Slough Road) – access, no beach
• Schoolhouse Pond (Main Street) – access, viewing/fishing platform, no beach
Drummer Boy Park
According to the Assessor’s database, Drummer Boy Park is about 17 acres in size. As discussed
throughout this Plan, particularly in Section 4.E., Drummer Boy Park is a valuable conservation and
recreation resource for the town, providing opportunities for active and passive recreation. It is also the
site for regular public events, such as the annual Brewster Conservation Day, Brewster in Bloom, Fairs and
Farmers Market (on adjacent Historical Society property). The town is undertaking the process to update
the Master Plan for the Park, and evaluating improved access to Wing Island.
Herring Run
According to the Assessor’s database, the
Herring Run property is about 1.8 acres in
size. The town acquired the site in 1940
in conjunction with the Gristmill, and the
remains of Factory Village on Stony Brook
Road. The Millsites Committee oversees
the preservation of Brewster's historic
Gristmill, and the town-owned land and
scenic footpaths along Stony Brook. The
herring run is a popular destination for
both residents and visitors. The Alewife
Committee oversees the Herring Run,
with the assistance of the Natural
Resources Department.
Captain’s Golf Course
According to the Assessor’s database, Captain’s Golf Course is about 305 acres in size. The property
contains two 18-hole courses: the par-72 Port Course and the par-72 Starboard Course.
Herring run at Stony Brook Mill. Photo credit: John Phelan
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 99
Public Athletic Fields and Other Recreation Facilities
The town is part of the Nauset regional school system for Middle School and High School, both of which
are located in towns other than Brewster. There are two public elementary schools in the Town of
Brewster: Eddy Elementary School (approximately 29 acres) and Stony Brook Elementary School
(approximately 23 acres). The Eddy and Stony Brook schools provide large field areas for public use during
non-school hours. The Cape Cod Baseball League’s Whitecaps plays at a Stony Brook field. There is also a
walking/running path that surrounds this field.
There are also the following fields:
• Behind the Council on Aging/Fire Department
• In front of Town Hall
• Large playing fields off of Freeman's Way:
o Three baseball fields – two Little League fields, one Babe Ruth field
o One soccer field
Ballfield at Freemans Way.
Town of Brewster Cape Cod Pathways
The Cape Cod Pathways Project, sponsored by Barnstable County, encourages landowners to participate
in the creation of a linked system of walking trails throughout the Cape. This network relies on land
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 100
donations, easements, licenses and purchases. Its implementation requires the use of access easements
over some privately owned parcels and the acquisition of other parcels for their conservation values as
well as access to the Trail.
The Town has been supportive of the effort of the Cape Cod Commission’s Cape Cod Pathways project to
link trails to form a Cape-wide network and the town has completed most of a contiguous trans-town
path as part of the regional Pathways system. The town's Cape Cod Pathways Committee had worked
consistently over the last two decades to implement the Brewster Pathways Plan and Brewster
Department of Natural Resources has taken over the planning and maintenance of this important through
trail. Any privately owned parcels that are necessary to cross as part of the Cape Cod Pathways Plan
should continue to be considered a high land protection priority for their recreational value, as well as
their conservation value.
4. State Conservation and Recreation Land
State-owned land in Brewster includes the Cape Cod Rail Trail and Nickerson State Park. Nickerson State
Park in the eastern sector of the town provides a passive and active recreational facility of over 1,960
acres and is a favorite Mid-Cape destination spot. The park provides over 400 camp sites, eight miles of
hiking and bicycle trails, freshwater and saltwater swimming, interpretive programs, fishing and boating.
The park is owned and managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Nickerson State Park offers family outings, camping, hiking, swimming, and boating. There is a stocked
year round pond for freshwater fishing.
Roland C. Nickerson State Park was the first state park, or “state forest park” as it was originally called, in
the Commonwealth. The park was established in 1934 when members of the Nickerson family donated
approximately 1,727 acres to the state in memory of Roland C. Nickerson, Junior and Senior. All lands
were located south of Route 6A. Prior to the donation, the property had been used as the Nickerson’s
private game preserve (Edmonds 1988).
Development of recreation infrastructure began almost immediately after the park’s establishment; it
continued through the 1970s. In 1983, the park expanded northward to the shores of Cape Cod Bay. It
now included coastal resources and recreational opportunities. Also acquired in the expansion were
dozens of buildings, including the historic Crosby Mansion and Crosby House. Today, Nickerson is perhaps
best known for its campground, the largest in the Complex; water-based recreation, and for its
connection to the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Coastal access is provided along the park’s approximately 4,200
feet of shoreline on Cape Cod Bay. The sandy beach and shallow, warm waters of the Bay make it popular
with beachgoers. Hundreds of acres of flats are exposed. Sections of the beach are closed seasonally to
protect state-listed beach-nesting birds. The beach is unguarded and there are no bathroom facilities.
Portable toilets are available seasonally at two adjacent municipal beaches; Linnell Landing Beach and
Crosby Landing Beach. There are no signs identifying the DCR-owned portions of the beach; they appear
to be extensions of Town of Brewster beaches.
The NSP Namskaket Sea Path, the first intertidal hiking trail in Massachusetts, extends from Nickerson’s
bayside beach in Brewster to the town-owned Skaket Beach in Orleans. It is passable only at low tide, and
requires wading across Skaket Creek and walking across at least 1,000 feet of flats. It lacks suitable
markers.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 101
The Stephen L. French Youth Forestry Camp is also located here. It is a Department of Youth Services
facility that contains a ropes course, administrative buildings, cabins, workshops, and sheds. The
Homeward Bound Wilderness Program is one of the oldest wilderness therapy programs in the country, it
is a highly structured 27-day outdoor experiential education program for court-acquainted adolescents
and is home based at the 26-acre Forestry Camp. The program is funded by the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Department of Youth Services and operated by the contracted vender, Accept Inc.
Approximately 216 youths participate each year. In operation year-round since 1970, Homeward Bound
continues to evolve and expand experiences for each participant. During the course of the program youth
learn to value their health, cook meals for
themselves, take responsibility for their
actions, practice household chores, run a 10K
marathon, team building skills, conflict
resolution, and much more. Instructors do
everything with the youth and are present the
entire time.
DCR leases the Crosby Estate to the town. The
1888 eclectic 35-room Crosby Mansion is the
centerpiece of Albert Crosby’s seaside estate.
The mansion, named “Tawasentha” was built
around Crosby’s childhood home, an early 19th
century Cape Cod-style house. It is managed
through the DCR’s Historic Curatorship
Program. The lessees, the town/Friends of
Crosby Mansion, rent the Mansion and three seaside cottages, using revenues generated to rehabilitate
the mansion (Foley 2015). The Friends have restored and rehabilitated the mansion over the years, with
the help of donations, grants, and town funds.
DCR also leases the Former Camp Monomoy to the Cape Repertory Theatre. Camp Monomoy started as
Camp Mon-O-Moy in 1922, boys’ camp, Camp Wono for Girls was added in 1939, forming the Cape Cod
Sea Camps. The camp was purchased in 1983 and added to Nickerson. In 1991, the Cape Rep was named
lessee of some of the camp buildings as well as the Cape House and Barn through special legislatio n.
Under the 25-year lease agreement, the non-profit theater uses the properties for theatrical programs
and performances. The Cape Rep has restored and rehabilitated a number of the buildings over the years,
with the help of donations, grants and town funds. The Cape Rep maintains buildings and grounds within
their control and offers six to eight plays per year.
There is also a 1.5 acre wetland parcel on Thad Ellis Road, purchased in 1993 by the MA Division of Fish &
Wildlife for permanent protection and the Brewster State Forest, 26 forested acres, located just west of
the Sheep Pond Woodlands Conservation Area. The Forest is bisected by the Cape Cod Rail Trail and
extends south to Sheep Pond.
The Cape Cod Rail Trail, which is over five miles long in Brewster, covers about 60 acres. This route, once
taken by the railroad, is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and
also runs through the Towns of Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet.
Yurt at Nickerson State Park. Photo credit: MA Department
of Conservation and Recreation
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 102
5. Brewster Conservation Trust Land
The Brewster Conservation Trust was formed by citizens greatly concerned with the impacts of
development on the town’s natural resources. Although privately chartered (granted in 1983 by the
Mass. Legislature), it is a public organization with several hundred members. The Trust Charter states that
its purpose is to promote preservation of the natural and rural character of the Town of Brewster, the
establishment of sound conservation practices, and acquisition by gift, purchase or otherwise of real
estate of every sort and description.
Because of the nature of its formative charter and private financing (independent of tax dollar funding),
the Trust offers methods of land protection and acquisition which extend beyond limits governing town
agencies. There is a sliding scale of tax effects on Conservation Restrictions established by the Town of
Brewster Assessors, based on time length of the Restrictions. A summary of the land parcels owned and
managed by the Brewster Conservation Trust is provided in Appendix E.
6. Orenda Wildlife Land Trust
Formed in 1986, Orenda has acquired over 300 acres that are preserved as sanctuaries on Cape Cod and
in western Massachusetts. Orenda also protects hundreds more acres by holding conservation
restrictions on some parcels or charitable trust agreements with other land trusts on their land. Orenda
owns one parcel (27.46 acres) in Brewster. The Brewster Conservation Trust holds a conservation
restriction on this parcel.
7. The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts
Though the Compact does not own any lands in Brewster except for those it holds temporarily during
land acquisition proceedings, it contributes much in the way of land protection, including planning, land
management and land protection work. The Compact provides technical expertise to the town and the
Brewster Conservation Trust. It also shares a staff person with the Trust and maintains an office at the
Trust’s headquarters.
8. Camps and Sporting Clubs
There are several private non-profit camps and sporting clubs in Brewster that provide important
recreational facilities for kids and adults including:
• Camp Mitton-Crossroads
• Camp Favorite - Girl Scouts
• Cape Cod Fish and Game
• Brewster Sportsman's Club
• Cape Cod Sea Camps
• Dream Day Cape Cod
9. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
Brewster has some important museum sites that provide open space and recreation resources including
the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in west Brewster which offers indoor and outdoor programs
and activities including several miles of walking trails and extensive wetland resource areas. The John
Wing Trail (1.3 miles) leads across the saltmarsh, north to Wings Island and finally descends to the barrier
beach and Cape Cod Bay. To the south, across Route 6A, is the Lee Baldwin Trail (one mile) which runs
through the salt marsh, across Stony Brook to a large Beech forest. The Stony Brook Herring Run starts at
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 103
this marsh and runs all the way to the Upper and Lower Mill Ponds and the Millsites on Stony Brook Road.
The Museum owns a total of 73.24 acres.
Field walk during KidSummer nature program at
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. Photo
credit: Maureen Dwyer, MA Office of Travel and
Tourism
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 104
SECTION 6. COMMUNITY VISION
A. Description of Process
The Town pulled from several sources to understand the community’s vision for open space and
recreational resources. These included public input expressed during recent planning efforts as well as
specific engagement during the OSRP update process.
B. Previous Planning Initiative s
The Town of Brewster has conducted several planning initiatives that involved public engagement such as
workshops, community surveys, and stakeholder meetings. They are detailed in Section 2. These
initiatives created plans that the Town is currently implementing and using to guide local policies. They
support open space and recreation planning and it is important that the OSRP be consistent with them.
All of these plans informed Section 7 Analysis of Needs, and subsequently Section 8 Goals and Objectives.
They are incorporated into this OSRP by reference and noted as needed throughout the plan.
1. Community Survey
An online community survey was developed to understand the current open space and recreational
needs and opportunities in Brewster. It was first administered between April 13 and May 11, 2020. Due to
COVID-19 and social distancing orders, town buildings were closed, therefore, paper copies were not
available at that time. Town departments distributed to their email lists and local partners were asked to
share the survey via email to their memberships, including Council on Aging, Brewster Land Conservation
Trust, Nauset High School, Association to Preserve Cape Cod, Brewster Chamber of Commerce, and
others. The survey was also announced on Brewster Cable public television.
The survey was reopened from June 1 to 30, 2021. Because town buildings were open to the public on a
limited basis, flyers were posted in Town Hall and the Library and sent to local partners. Paper copies of
the survey were available upon request from the Department of Natural Resources.
A total of 600 responded to the survey. Below highlights the key findings of the survey and the full output
can be found in Appendix A.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 105
Cooperative land conservation efforts between
government and non-profits
Town purchase of land
Mandatory dedication of open space by
developers
Conservation restrictions/easements
Zoning that encourages open space
conservation
0%20%40%60%80%100%
What Town actions do you favor to preserve and protect open space? (Check all
that apply) (593 responses)
Expand bike trails and paths for recreation and
transportation throughout town
Expand pedestrian trails and paths for recreation
and transportation throughout town
Develop a town wide plan that includes all
existing trails and sidewalks, potential areas for…
Improve bicycling safety and information
Identify areas of improvement for existing trails
and sidewalks such as signage, safety, and lighting
Provide new active recreation opportunities
(seasonal and year-round), including those for…
Identify locations for new facilities such as, a
community pool, pickleball, volleyball, and…
Research potential ways to provide transportation
to recreation areas
Provide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
access to existing fields and facilities
0%20%40%60%
What are the most important actions the Town should take in the next 5
years regarding open space and recreation opportunities and public
access? (593 responded)
Not At All Important
Slightly Important
Moderately Important
Extremely Important
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 106
Trail/boardwalk
to Wing Island
Fenced
children’s
playground
Summer events Pavilion Exercise
programs
Walking trails
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
What uses would you like to see at Drummer Boy Park?
(Check all that apply) (501 responded)
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 107
Inclusive playground
Better park/playing field/playground maintenance
Outdoor fitness equipment
Improved accessibility for handicapped or mobility-
impaired users at conservation areas
Improved accessibility for handicapped or mobility-
impaired users at recreation facilities
More children’s playgrounds
More neighborhood parks
Better parking at recreation facilities
More sites/facilities for adult sports
Better parking at conservation trailheads
More community gardens
More activities for teens
Management of wildlife and plant habitat
Better trail markers on conservation trails
Better signage at conservation trailheads
Better boardwalks on wet trail sections
Better control of invasive species and forest pests
More indoor recreation facilities
Dog parks
More trails for walking, hiking, running
0 50 100 150 200
Number of Responses
Select up to 2 improvements you would like the Town to pursue:
(495 responded)
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 108
Horseshoes
Curling
Amphitheater
Skateboarding
Ping pong and table tennis
Space to listen to music, use electronic devices in…
Volleyball
Dance classes/programs
Cross country skiing
Night-lighted facilities
Basketball courts
Boating (power)
Intergenerational programs
Outdoor track
Softball fields and programs
Baseball/softball fields
Kayak storage at public beaches
T-ball programs
Trail running
Sailing programs
Fitness trails
Picnic areas
Seniors, gentle exercise
Community gardening
Summer concerts outdoors
Conservation volunteering
Teen programs
Swimming lessons
Historic site interpretation (markers signage)
Playgrounds
Water bottle filling stations/fountains
Swimming, pond
Sidewalks
Herring run
Walking/hiking
0%20%40%60%80%100%
In planning for future open space and recreation, how important are the
following to you? (532 responded)
Extremely Important Moderately Important Slightly Important Not At All Important
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 109
2. Public Workshop s
As described in Section 2, on June 18, 2020, the Town held a virtual meeting to present the draft sections
of the OSRP for public comment. Draft materials were posted on the Town’s website and residents were
encouraged to email comments and questions in advance of the virtual meeting. The meeting presented
an overview of the OSRP, why the Town has a plan, needs identified in the community survey and
planning initiatives since the last OSRP update, and draft goals and objectives. Viewers could email
questions live. Draft materials remained on the Town’s website and comments were accepted through
June 26, 2020, a week after the virtual meeting. Comments received were incorporated into the OSRP.
A second virtual public workshop was held June 15, 2021. Because town buildings were open to the
public on a limited basis, flyers were posted in Town Hall and the Library and sent to local partners. It was
also promoted on the Town’s website. A presentation summarized the OSRP and encouraged residents to
take the community survey that was reopened. Town staff also answered questions from attendees.
C. Statement of Open Space and Recreation Goals
The primary goals related to open space and recreation identified by residents are:
• Support the Brewster 2018 Vision Plan, particularly where it speaks to the Town’s open space and
recreational resources.
• Ensure that access to open space and recreational resources is equitable and inclusive to
Brewster residents of all ages and abilities.
• Create diverse opportunities for Brewster residents to be active and live healthy lives.
• Protect and enhance the Town’s natural resources to maintain the environmental, social, and
economic values and benefits they provide to the community.
• Continuously reach out to the public to understand community needs.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 110
SECTION 7. ANALYSIS OF NEEDS
This section provides an overview of open space and recreational needs for the Town of Brewster. They
are a compilation of public input from the recent planning initiatives listed in Section 2, public input
strategies described in Section 6 as part of the OSRP update process, and consultation with Town staff,
boards, and commissions.
A. Summary of Resource Protection Needs
1. Water Systems
Brewster’s commitment to the protection of marine and fresh surface waterbodies through a holistic
watershed approach has been, and will continue to be, integral to its success in protecting these
resources. The Brewster Integrated Water Resources Management Plan (IWRMP) serves as the Town’s
comprehensive guide to local water resource protection and contains a number of recommendations for
protecting marine and fresh surface waters. Strategies focus on nitrogen management for marine surface
waters, town-wide stormwater management, and short-term management strategies to reduce
phosphorus loadings to Brewster’s freshwater ponds. Phase III of the IWRMP included the assessments of
Pleasant Bay, Mill Ponds, Schoolhouse Pond, and Herring River. It will be important for the Town to
continue these efforts to ensure protection of its valuable surface water resources.
The following offers more detail on specific water resources in Brewster.
T own W ellfields Protection
Brewster’s drinking water supply is sourced from wells;
therefore, protecting wellfields is important to ensure clean and
safe drinking water. Respondents to the OSRP community
survey overwhelmingly supported preservation of land to
protect groundwater and drinking water (95%). The Brewster
Vision Plan recommends the Town should identify and acquire
more open space in critical areas around wellfields, educate the
public about threats to drinking water supplies in order to
prevent contamination, and improve zoning regulations in the
Zone II area. One of the recommendations that came out of the
March 2019 public workshop conducted for the MVP program was the development of back-up power at
the drinking water wells to provide critical infrastructure resilience to power outages during natural
disasters. Most respondents of the OSRP survey (84%) support the management of land dedicated for
public water supply protection.
Water Quality of Ponds
Ponds provide important habitat for aquatic life and are a great natural resource for residents in
Brewster. Nutrients in ponds are important for sustaining all living plants and animals in an aquatic
ecosystem. However, human activity and development cause nutrient levels to become excessive,
potentially fueling nuisance and invasive marine plant growth and degrading water quality. Primary
sources of pollutants include septic systems, and stormwater runoff from roadways and treated lawns.
What is a Zone II area?
The DEP-approved area of an aquifer
which contributes water to a well
under the most severe pumping and
recharge conditions that can be
realistically anticipated as defined in
310 CMR 22.00.
- Brewster Water Quality Protection
Overlay District, Brewster Zoning Bylaw
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 111
In addition to the work and recommendations of the IWRMP, the Brewster Vision Plan recommends
public education about fertilizer use, landscaping best practices, upkeep of septic systems, and
stormwater management. The Town should also review and strengthen its current policies and
regulations that can reduce pollutants in surface water, including septic system regulations and those
designed to meet state and federally mandated requirements to manage stormwater.
Water Quality of M arine Watersheds
Brewster's identity is tied to its small coastal community feel. Both the Town's marine and fresh
waterbodies are important to the region’s ecology, recreational opportunities, and economic health.
These resources provide not only critical habitat for wildlife and vegetative communities but also
contribute to the aesthetic beauty of Brewster. Coastal and freshwater resources, particularly the
beaches, also draw large numbers of visitors to Brewster each year, making them important for tourism
and local economic development. However, heavy use of the waterbodies and their shorelines, coupled
with development in watersheds, can result in unintended degradation of water quality and habitat.
Protecting the water quality of marine watersheds is not only beneficial to Brewster's residents but the
environment as well. The Town should continue protecting the marine watershed by upgrading town-
owned wastewater treatment systems and expanding the standards for development in sensitive marine
watersheds. Public education on what property owners can do to contribute to a healthy environment
can also enhance ecosystem health and promote environmental stewardship.
Shellfishing at Saint’s Landing Beach. Photo credit: Brewster Chamber of Commerce
2. Habitat Protection
Healthy and productive coastal and inland ecosystems and habitats have social, economic, and
environmental benefits. Open areas offer recreational opportunities to walk and experience nature,
wetlands improve water quality and absorb floodwaters, and forests improve air quality and reduce air
temperatures. Natural systems such as dunes and their vegetation can also help minimize the inland
impacts of storm surge during severe weather events. Healthy shellfish beds support the local economy
and businesses. Beaches and conservation areas attract visitors who also spend money at local
restaurants and shops.
These systems are not in isolation. Building and maintaining linkages between habitats and systems
support species that have both ecological and socio-economic importance. For example, species such as
herring move between watersheds and coasts while completing their life cycle activities and allow
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 112
researchers to measure ecosystem health. These links also provide opportunities for users to move
through open space areas as well, as long as there is a balance with habitat protection.
Inland and coastal systems are often threatened by pollution, overuse, and physical habitat alteration and
destruction, intentional or unintentional. A majority of respondents to the OSRP survey (83%) agreed that
it is extremely important to protect land for wildlife habitat and half (51%) agreed that it was extremely
important to protect land that links open space parcels.
The Brewster Vision Plan, Brewster Coastal Adaptation Strategy, and Brewster Coastal Resources
Management Plan outline several policies and strategies to protect the Town’s open spaces and coastal
resources. The Town should continue to work with its partners in protecting key properties with critical
habitat and built linkages. A review of municipal regulations can identify areas that can strengthen
requirements for stormwater management. Improving access to natural areas should minimize invasive
infrastructure such as boardwalks and parking that encroaches on environmentally sensitive areas.
3. Agriculture
Supporting local agriculture is an issue of regional importance, and a number of regional organizations
have been working to increase local agricultural activity and expand the amount of land available for
farming. There is an opportunity and community support to expand local agriculture to protect and
promote agricultural activities in the Town. When asked about agriculture in the OSRP survey, more than
50% of respondents noted that preserving agricultural land is extremely important. Taken together, more
than half of respondents felt that community gardens were “extremely important” or “moderately
important” (26% and 37% respectively). Just over half (53%) also identified farmers markets as “extremely
important” in planning efforts, with 34% felt it was moderately important. About 12% included
community gardens in their top two improvements the Town should pursue. The Brewster Conservation
Trust has a limited number of plots available for families at its 18-acre Lower Road field. The Town should
look for other opportunities to determine the feasibility and interest in developing community gardens
for residents on Town properties.
4. Climate Change and Natural Hazards
Natural resources, such as freshwater wetlands and coastal marshland, are the Town's first line of
defense against natural hazards, particularly severe weather and coastal storm events that bring wind,
rain, and storm surge. Natural features absorb rain and runoff, providing a buffer that can significantly
reduce damage to public infrastructure and private property. Natural coastal processes can also be
The community garden (65 plots for
families) and the children’s garden at
the Brewster Conservation Trust are
the only community gardens on Cape
Cod that are hosted on land trust
property. Photo credit: Brewster
Conservation Trust
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 113
disrupted by the impacts of climate change, which exacerbate threats such as coastal erosion, accretion,
sea-level rise, and storm surge.
Recent planning efforts by the Town assessed these issues with stakeholders and public input. Goals for
coastal management outlined in Brewster Vision Plan include adapting to climate change projections and
developing resiliency techniques that are financially and environmentally sustainable. The Vision Plan also
outlines the need for public outreach and educating
citizens and decision-makers about coastal change
and achieving the plan’s goals. Techniques such as
living shorelines are also highlighted as one way of
supporting and strengthening natural resources and
their role in adapting to and minimizing the impacts
of climate change.
During the MVP workshop, community stakeholders
reinforced the focus of Brewster as being most
vulnerable to coastal flooding/storm surge, sea level
rise, hurricanes or Nor'easters, and intense
rain/flooding. The outcomes of the Vision Plan,
Brewster Coastal Strategy, and Coastal Resource
Management Plan support the protection of natural
resources and mitigating impacts from these events.
Action items from the workshop also call for more
public education on preparedness and projects that
increase the Town’s resilience.
B. Summary of Community Needs
1. Coastal Public Access
Brewster's public beaches are popular with locals and visitors. However, access to beaches has been a
challenge for many people. In the Brewster Vision Plan, residents noted a strong desire to improve beach
access. In general, residents want to expand beach access to new areas, improve beach parking, and
Handicap accessibility. Access to public beaches, especially for residents in the summertime, needs to be
prioritized. In addition, amenities and considerations that improve accessibility to public beaches by
disabled populations should be implemented. It is important to make these areas accessible to all user
groups in Brewster.
The 2016 Coastal Beach Access Survey revealed that most respondents access the beach by driving. When
arriving, they often face challenges of lack of parking spaces and handicap accessibility. When presented
with the option of the shuttle, more than 60% of respondents noted the desire to take the shuttle from a
satellite location to the beach.
2. Recreat ional Opportunities
Recreation facilities are incredibly important for a healthy and vibrant community. These facilities provide
opportunities for residents to be active and to socialize with other residents. They are common ground
focused on inclusivity while fostering a culture of health and well-being in the communities they serve.
Ellis Landing Beach. Photo credit: Kelly Moore
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 114
Residents are looking for more recreational opportunities for all ages. The Brewster Vision Plan highlights
the need for more walking trails, bike paths, sidewalks, and a dog park. The Vision Plan also supports the
expanded utilization of Drummer Boy Park for recreational purposes, including the possible development
of a walkway to Wings Island. In the OSRP survey, over 40% of respondents noted that providing new
active recreation opportunities (seasonal and year-round), including those for youth (see more discussion
below under Targeted Populations), is very important. Respondents to the OSRP survey highlighted the
need for future open space and recreational planning should focus on walking and hiking trails,
specifically those that are accessible.
Residents also express a need for a community center in the OSRP survey as well as in the Vision Plan. A
center would add more space for indoor recreational activities as well as add itional space for the Council
on Aging (COA) to expand its offerings. There may be opportunities to work collaboratively with
neighboring towns on a shared space or with a private entity like the YMCA.
The Town responds to these needs through different departments. The Recreation Department continues
to improve current programming, as well as expanding into other new programs for kids, adults, and
seniors. It has also expanded programming to alternative outdoor locations like various bay beaches,
ponds, and trails. The Department is looking to locate a new full basketball court with two hoops with
pickleball striping. It would like to update the current Drummer Boy Park Master Plan and is actively
applying for funding to support the update. The COA also continues to update its offerings and recently
installed a new bocce court.
More “passive” recreation is also supported. The Town recently updated its trail map and guide to include
all networks in one brochure. There are also ample opportunities for freshwater fishing in ponds
throughout Brewster.
3. Health and Wellness
Recreation and leisure activities are integral to our health and social well-being, and the Town is
dedicated to creating opportunities for Brewster residents to live healthier lifestyles. One of the "three
pillars" of the National Recreation and Parks Association is health and wellness, and the Brewster
Recreation Department echo those sentiments.
People look to the Town’s parks and open spaces as an outlet during stressful situations. Resource
advocates voice the importance of these spaces for physiological and mental health benefits, offering
opportunities to be active with our body, "unplug" our minds, and reconnect with nature. This was
amplified during COVID-19 pandemic, when the Governor issued stay-at-home orders from March to at
least May 2020, the time of the draft publication. Many found refuge by simply walking, biking, or
running,7 or being in their local park or open space.
Open spaces and parks are also important as community-wide resources because they provide places for
informal gatherings as well as organized community events and recreational programming.
The Recreation Department continues to improve current programming by offering more diverse
activities like yoga and fitness events that allow all age groups to be engaged and active.
7 https://kinder.rice.edu/urbanedge/2020/04/10/covid-19-era-renewed-appreciation-our-parks-and-open-spaces
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 115
4. Bike and Pedestrian Networks
Walkable neighborhoods have health, environmental, and financial benefits. When a community is
walkable and bikeable, it makes it easier to get around and fosters a greater sense of community.
Connecting resources with walking and
biking networks allows residents to
access areas without using their
vehicles, which helps reduce air
pollution and promotes healthier
choices.
Half of respondents to the OSRP survey
noted they live within a quarter mile
(approximately a five to 10-minute
walk) of a recreation or open space
resource, but 41% still drove their
vehicle to get to an open space or
recreational facility. There could be
several reasons for this. For example,
the type of resource near their home
may not be their destination, indicating
that desired recreational opportunities may not be equitably distributed in Town. It could also imply that
the resource near their home is not easy to walk or bike to.
Brewster residents support an increase in walking and biking amenities. This was articulated in the
Brewster Vision Plan and Biking Strategy Plan. Equally, responses to the OSRP survey also support the
need to expand biking and walking trails and paths for recreation and a way to get around Town. More
information about bike safety and finding opportunities to make it safer to bike in Brewster were also
important to survey respondents. More than three quarters felt it was either extremely important (55%)
or moderately important (26%) to address sidewalks in future open space and recreation planning. More
than half of respondents (60%) felt it is extremely important for Brewster to develop a town-wide walking
and biking plan that includes all existing trails and sidewalks, potential areas for expansion, trail
connections, and links to key recreation areas and bay beaches.
The Town has made a significant effort to improve walking and biking safety overall town-wide, and
specifically in accessing open space and recreational resources. New sidewalks along Mill Stone Road
connect Nickerson State Park to the Cape Cod Bike Trail and to a new affordable housing development.
The Town also advocates to Massachusetts Department of Transportation the inclusion of sidewalks
when it proposes improvements or maintenance to Route 6A and other state roads. It is important to
note that building a larger walking and biking network will take incremental projects. The Town continues
to identify gaps and will prioritize areas that connect residential areas to parks and open spaces and other
destinations. And as sidewalks, paths, and other connections are made, it is also important to incorporate
other amenities such as benches, trash receptacles, and bike racks.
Cape Cod Rail Trail in East Brewster. Photo credit: John Phelan
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 116
Developing and adopting Complete Streets principles into a town policy is one way Brewster can increase
walking and biking amenities. Complete Streets principles consider all modes of transportation (walking,
biking, driving, and public transportation) in a development project and integrate these modes into a
larger town-wide network. Adopting these principles creates a safer way to travel through town for
people of all ages and abilities. Implementing Complete Streets principles are shown to have safety,
environmental, economic, and public health benefits.8 Through their Complete Streets Program, the
Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT)9 has a variety of technical resources and
funding opportunities to assist communities in developing local Complete Streets priorities and
implementation. There is a three-tiered process that must be met to be eligible for funding. In January
2020, the Brewster Select Board adopted a Complete Streets policy. For Tier 2, the Town must assess the
needs, safety, and network gaps in its transportation network and prioritize projects for funding (Tier 3).
Safety and network gaps between residential areas and open space and recreation resources should be
part of that assessment.
5. Ecotourism
Ecotourism refers to immersing oneself into
the culture of the place you are visiting. In
Brewster, visitors experience the
community by walking its conservation
areas, biking its trails, fishing on its
freshwater ponds, and visiting its beaches.
These visitors in turn support local
businesses like restaurants, lodging,
museums, and shops. The Brewster
Chamber of Commerce advocates for
ecotourism and promotes sustainable
travel that brings visitors but leaves a small
footprint on the natural environment. The
Vision Plan also recognizes the importance of the Town’s natural beauty and resources to the
community’s economic base. The Town partners in this effort by protecting and maintaining its open
space and recreational resources through the diverse policies and programs discussed throughout this
OSRP.
6. Target Population s
Different user groups have different needs and preference for recreational facilities and programming.
Age, culture, ability, and other population characteristics should be considered when planning for
recreation and open space. To ensure the Town is inclusive with its planning and development of
programs, residents want to focus on the needs of specific populations in the community.
8 https://smartgrowthamerica.org/program/national-complete-streets-coalition/what-are-complete-streets/.
Obtained January 6, 2017.
9 http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/DoingBusinessWithUs/LocalAidPrograms/CompleteStreets.aspx .
Obtained January 6, 2017.
Cape Cod Sea Camps. Photo credit: John Phelan
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 117
Youth and Families
Creating recreational programs and activities for the Town's youth is an opportunity to promote youth
development and show them they are valued in the community.10 Activities allow young people to foster
positive social relationships with adults and other youth, learn conflict resolution, and value civic
engagement. More than half of respondents to the OSRP survey felt it was either very important (32%) or
moderately important (31%) that future planning of open space and recreation include teen
programming. Several comments addressed the need for activities and space for teens and young adults,
including those with disabilities. During the Vision Plan, students expressed the need for more active
recreation such as sports fields, courts, and a skate park.
There are various ways to get the youth involved in recreational programs. The Council on Aging Action
Plan discusses intergenerational programming as a way to connect older adults with younger generations.
The Recreation Department is continuously developing new programs to try to capture younger
residents. Summer programs include tennis, archery, and track and field. Teens are also eligible for
season employment through the Department as lifeguards and instructors.
As the Town sees an increase of its affordable housing base, it will also see an increase in young families.
Whenever possible, the design of these new developments should incorporate elements of open space,
recreational amenities, walking and biking infrastructure, and community gardens. Walking and biking
links to neighboring open space and recreational resources should also developed to build the overall
network, as discussed earlier.
Aging Population
Community programs for seniors provide personal and health benefits, allowing them to stay physically
and socially active. Nearly half of Brewster’s residents are over the age of 60. The Brewster Council on
Aging developed an Age-Friendly Action Plan that outlines several initiatives to improve services to the
Town’s older residents. Recreational goals include offering a full range of exercise and fitness activities
that meet the needs and preferences of a diverse group, from low to high intensity. As noted above,
there is a desire to explore intergenerational programming between older adults and youth through the
Recreation Department.
People with Disabilities
A committed to promoting outdoor recreational facilities that are free of barriers and open to all
throughout Brewster is important. In the OSRP, over 40% of residents noted that providing Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA) access to existing fields and facilities is extremely important. An ADA Self
Evaluation was conducted as part of the OSRP update and can be found in Appendix F. The All Access The
evaluation includes priorities for updating facilities to make them more accessible over the long-term.
C. Management Needs, Potential Change of Use
1. Recreation al Facilities and Programming
Maintenance of recreational facilities, such as ballfields, courts, playgrounds, and parks, is done through
the Department of Public Works. The Recreation Department, with guidance and support of the
10 https://www.nrpa.org/globalassets/research/witt-caldwell-full-research-paper.pdf
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 118
Recreation Commission, is responsible for developing recreational programming, staffing, and
management and coordination of facility usage.
The Town works to ensure that its recreational facilities
are well maintained and appropriately staffed on a
regular, continuous basis. Overall, respondents to the
OSRP survey felt that maintenance of Brewster’s open
space and recreation areas was average (39%) or above
average (43%). Failure to ensure upkeep of facilities,
even for short-term reasons, can have long-term
implications that decrease public safety and support,
and adversely impacts the public recreational
experiences.
When financial and technical resources are limited, the
Town can use creative ways to ensure proper
maintenance levels. One example is through
partnerships with local community groups, leagues,
clubs, and businesses through an “adopt a spot” or
“adopt a park” program.
Expanding recreational programming that include new
activities or building upon growing demand for existing
will also require additional resources. Respondents to
the OSRP survey highlight many new programs and
activities they would like to see, including areas dedicated for dogs, a community center, and walking and
biking amenities, including benches. These and other suggestions will need to be assessed for feasibility
based on available space (or land if a new facility), construction costs (if new or redevelopment of an
existing facility), equipment costs, and needed staff, among other factors.
2. Conservation Area and Natural Resource Management
There are several municipal departments, boards, and commissions that support the health and
protection of the Town’s natural resources, but two are highlighted here as leads for conservation area
and natural resource management efforts. Brewster’s Natural Resources Department is currently staffed
by a Director and two Shellfish and Natural Resource Officers. The Department oversees shellfish
propagation and regulations for commercial and non-commercial shellfishing. It also leads Town efforts
related to coastal resource management and protection. The Conservation Department is staffed by a
Conservation Administrator and Department Assistant. It is responsible for the administration of the
Town’s wetlands protection bylaws and regulations and open space planning and management. The
Department also provides staff support for the Conservation Commission.
Recognizing that staffing is limited in these departments, the Town relies on partnerships for the upkeep
and management of the conservation areas and natural resources:
• The Brewster Conservation Trust is a non-profit land trust that owns land and conservation
restrictions in Town with a goal of preserving open space, natural resources, and the rural
character of Brewster.
Playground at Stony Brook Elementary School.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 119
• Brewster Flats works with the Natural Resources Department and helps maintain Brewster’s open
space and recreation areas.
These groups along with local scouts and other civic and community groups help to maintain trails, trail
markings, and clean-up of public open spaces. More than half of respondents to the OSRP survey
indicated that conservation volunteering was either extremely important (30%) or moderately important
(39%) in future planning of open space and recreation.
The Town continues to express the need to establish a separate land manager/park ranger position in
order to more effectively manage and patrol open space areas. A land manager/park ranger and staff
would be able to manage a number of areas, including having the responsibility for maintaining trails and
providing “on-the-spot” education and outreach to the public. A visible Town presence on public lands
would be an asset and would help promote environmental stewardship as well as enforce regulations
related to public open space areas. This could start as a volunteer position to demonstrate its value and
garner public support as a permanent municipal staff position.
Property management plans can also be an important tool that outline specific needs of a conservation
area and outline strategies to ensure the long-term health of the environment and maintenance of user
amenities. The Town has undertaken several initiatives that create resource management plans and there
may be opportunities to focus on specific conservation or recreational areas to address unmet
maintenance or management needs.
3. Climate Change and Natural Hazards
Preparing for the impacts of natural hazards and climate change involves all municipal departments in a
coordinated effort, many more than those that participate in open space and recreational planning. As
shown in the studies and reports outline in Section 2, the Town has made it a priority to be more resilient
to these challenges. The Town is also in the process of writing its Hazard Mitigation Plan, which will be an
important document in planning for natural hazards like intense and severe storms, heat waves,
tornados, earthquakes, and other events. Actions from all these efforts range from public education to
infrastructure investments. The Town should continue with these planning efforts and remain vigilant in
keeping current on best practices and new data as they become available.
As noted earlier, natural resources and processes, while impacted by climate change, can also build
resilience. The Town continues to ensure their health and productivity to maintain their values and
functions through local regulations, conservation efforts, and mitigation and enhancement projects.
Broadly, strategies include:
• A review of local bylaws and regulations to ensure they meet anticipated impacts of sea level rise,
more intense and frequent storm events, and more extreme precipitation and temperature
cycles, among other projections.
• A review of stormwater management infrastructure to identify opportunities to incorporate more
natural features (“green infrastructure”) to slow and collect rain runoff during storms.
• Find natural areas, such as wetland or dune systems, that would benefit from preservation and
enhancement to maintain and support their ecological functions that build resiliency (“living
shorelines”).
• Monitor changing environmental conditions, including coastal areas, aquifer resources,
floodplain, and wetlands, among others.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 120
Approaches that focus on natural resources go hand in hand with other adaptive strategies to improve
roadways and utility infrastructure and policies that promote development with less impervious surfaces,
for example.
4. Open Space and Recreation Planning R elated to Pandemics
The COVID-19 pandemic, which is still ongoing as this OSRP is updated, has impacted all residents, but
certain groups in our communities are more at risk, including people 65 years and older, those with
chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, and those struggling with
mental health issues. Lower income residents, communities of color, and persons with disabilities are also
more likely to experience hardships as a result of the pandemic. The inequities of these impacts arise
from many existing socioeconomic conditions, particularly barriers to access health care, quality housing,
healthy foods, and even quality open space and recreational opportunities, among others. During the
pandemic, Executive Orders from the Governor closed essential businesses and places to the public,
including state and local parks and recreational areas. Understanding the importance of these resources
for physical and mental wellbeing, residents still sought out opportunities to be active and be in natural
settings.
The pandemic provides an opportunity to look at open space and recreational planning with a new lens.
What are ways to keep programming and services available to residents while ensuring public health and
safety during situations that warrant social distancing? During these times, can the Town continue to
engage residents, particularly those that are most vulnerable and struggle in social isolation? What are
ways to make our parks and public spaces safe if social distancing is required? How do we design f uture
parks and spaces with these situations in mind? The National Recreation and Park Association discusses
these issues and challenges recreation professions to be creative and innovative while ensuring equitable
access for all residents.11 Not experiencing these issues alone, Brewster can work with its regional
partners to share ideas, lessons learned, and resources. Advocating that parks and recreational areas are
essential for overall community public health should be discussed.
In the immediate future, the Town is working to maintain parks, conservation areas, and other municipal
facilities and their ability to serve the public. Ensuring public health and safety requires limiting visitors to
places like beaches and enforcing safe social distancing.
The Cape Cod Reopening Task Force is assisting regional communities in these efforts. While the number
of visitors is expected to be lower, projections from a survey of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce
visitor database (May 2020) indicates that about 67% say they will return the summer of 2020. This
reduced volume impacts not only the business community but the revenues to the Town associated with
user fees at its beaches and parks.
D. Regional and State -Identified Needs
1. Cape Cod Commission
The Cape Cod Commission’s (CCC) 2018 Regional Policy Plan (RPP) outlines policies and objectives to
guide development and protect natural resources and open spaces on Cape Cod. The RPP and Brewster
have shared goals and needs for the protection of these resources.
11 https://www.nrpa.org/our-work/Three-Pillars/health-wellness/coronavirus-disease-2019/
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 121
The 2018 RPP identifies Natural Areas as generally the region’s least developed and most sensitive areas.
These identified areas comprise natural shoreline, barrier beaches, banks, and dunes, areas with highest
habitat value and natural landscapes, undeveloped lands in wellhead protection areas, buffers to
wetlands and vernal pools, and undeveloped areas subject to flooding. The vision for Natural Areas is to
minimize adverse development impacts to sensitive resource areas, to preserve lands that define Cape
Cod’s natural landscape and contribute to its scenic character, and to improve the Cape’s resilience to
severe storms and the effects of climate change. Natural Areas are lands with the highest significance for
resource protection or conservation and are appropriate for permanent protection through acquisition
and conservation restriction or for transfer of development rights to less vulnerable areas.
In the 2018 RPP, the CCC recognizes that the open space of the Cape is critical to the health of the
region’s natural systems, economy, and population. Open space provides habitat for the region’s diverse
species and protection of the region’s drinking water supply. Wooded open space provides a carbon sink
for mitigating the impacts of climate change, both through the storage of carbon that would otherwise be
lost to the atmosphere through development, and through the carbon-absorbing capacity of trees. Open
space contributes significantly to the natural and rural character of the region and supports key
industries. The beaches, farms, woodlands, and marshes of the Cape provide recreational outdoor
activities that attract visitors and residents to the region and provide the necessary land and resources for
the Cape’s agricultural activities.
According to the CCC’s 2018 RPP, “An analysis conducted using 2012 assessor’s data showed that
protected open space comprises approximately 40% of the Cape’s more than 230,000 assessed acres. The
protected land includes federal, state, and local holdings, which vary widely in their amounts by town. In
total, Cape towns hold more than 30,000 acres of protected open space. In addition to government
entities, private land trusts have been critical in protecting open space as well.”
Finally, the CCC completed its Green Infrastructure Mapping project.12 The Pine Barrens Partnership,
including members representing local, regional, and state government and non-profit partners, identified
lands within the Pine Barrens Ecoregion that are priorities for conservation and management. The Pine
Barrens Ecoregion includes all of Cape Cod, the Islands, and several towns in southeastern Massachusetts,
and comprises an area sharing common geology and habitats. The “Green Infrastructure Map” includes
BioMap 2 Core Habitat and Critical Natural Landscapes, lands that will allow for habitat resiliency as the
climate changes, and coastal and riparian areas that are prone to flooding. CCC is an active partner in this
project and worked with stakeholders to finetune the map.
2. Massachu setts Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
(201 7 )
The 2017 Massachusetts Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) was developed by
the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. The SCORP is a planning
document that assessed the availability of recreational resources and the needs of residents throughout
the state as a way to identify gaps. It is also one method of how states meet multiple goals of the National
Park Service and remain eligible for funding from the National LWCF (LWCF). In Massachusetts, EEA
administers LWCF grants to Commonwealth communities with approved Open Space and Recreation
12 Conserving the Massachusetts Coastal Pine Barrens:
https://cccommission.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapJournal/index.html?appid=8fe34c4ea57c45f482cf0e628a648e8a
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 122
Plans. Grants can be used for activities that address recreation and open space needs, including land
acquisition for conservation or recreation purposes or park renovation.
The development of the latest SCORP involved an extensive public outreach process, including regional
public meetings and surveys. Surveys targeted specific groups: recreation users, municipal employees,
land trusts, and middle and high school students. Through the public participation process, four outdoor
recreation goals were developed for the 2017 SCORP. The goals are:
1. Access for Underserved Populations
2. Support the Statewide Trails Initiative
3. Increase the Availability of Water-based Recreation
4. Support the Creation and Renovation of Neighborhood Parks
The following provides an overview of the SCORP findings.
Recreation Users and Youth
Through the surveys, most recreation users said outdoor recreation was very important to them for
physical fitness, mental well-being, and being close to nature. When asked why they visited a specific
outdoor recreation facility, most responded that it was closest to their home. About three-quarters of
survey respondents had a park or conservation area within walking or biking distance to their homes, but
more than half drove. Lack of time was the number one reason why respondents did not visit outdoor
recreation sites more frequently. Most respondents to the survey felt that programming at a facility was
somewhat or very important, particularly for seniors, young children (4 to 12 years old), and teens. The
most popular recreational activities respondents engaged in over the past 12 months were water-based
recreation (boating, swimming, etc.) and trail-based recreation (hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, etc.).
Desired amenities or activities were more trails, inclusive playgrounds for all young children with all
abilities, and more water-based recreation.
The most popular activities for middle and high school-aged youth were team activities like soccer,
lacrosse, and football. Teens favored swimming, hiking, running/jogging, walking, and road biking. Youth
and teens frequented outdoor recreation facilities closest to where they lived, and popular reasons why
they visited these sites were for fun and enjoyment, spend time with friends and family, and to be
outside. Lack of time, weather, and use of the Internet were primary reasons why younger respondents
did not visit facilities or participate in recreational programming. Desired amenities were more
recreational sites close to home, more equipment at sites, and providing spaces that are “just for kids my
age.”
Similar concerns and desires were expressed in Brewster. Water-based activities and walking and biking
are very popular. Residents want more amenities to get around without a car. Many live near open space
and recreational resources but walking and biking to these spaces from their neighborhoods is not
considered safe. About one quarter of the community survey respondents felt that youth between 13 and
17 years were not well-served by Brewster’s open space and recreation opportunities.
Municipal Employees
Municipal land and conservation staff were asked about the types and quality of resources available to
their residents. Out of 351 communities, 58 municipalities (17%) responded to a survey. Most responses
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 123
(about one third) came from local conservation commissions followed by parks and recreation
departments. More than half (69%) of respondents had part- or full-time recreation staff and 82% had
part- or full-time conservation staff. The SCORP noted that this demonstrates that communities are able
to provide many types of outdoor recreation facilities for the ir residents. Important factors to consider
when determining a community’s staffing and financial capacity to provide quality resources and
programming are the number of sites a community has, the types of amenities offered at each site,
regular maintenance required, and the size of the sites, among other attributes.
About half of the respondents offered more than nine programs annually. Those providing less focused
on activities that connected children to the outdoors. Only 16% responded that they offered more than
four activities per year for people with disabilities.
Highest priorities for funding in the next year were for playgrounds, ball fields, community or regional trail
systems, and improving pedestrian access to parks such as sidewalks and safe road crossings. This is
consistent with responses from recreational users and youth groups.
In Brewster, biggest needs are also focused on the capacity of department staff and sustainable funding
for investments in recreational facilities and programming and open space acquisition and management.
There is a heavy reliance on local volunteer groups and organizations for maintenance and upkeep.
Ensuring accessible resources is important for the Town and departments coordinate with the All Access
Committee on priorities.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 124
SECTION 8. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The goals and objectives described in this section are the long-range aspirations of the Town of Brewster
for the protection of natural resources and provision of recreational opportunities for its citizens and
visitors. The objectives listed here are conceptual steps that need to be undertaken in order to achieve
these goals. The specific actions required to implement these objectives are contained in Section 9, The
Seven-Year Plan.
The goals and objectives are the results of input from the community through the community survey,
public meeting, and review by various town boards, committees, and departments. They also capture the
goals of recent planning initiatives discussed in Section 2 and are consistent with the 2018 Cape Cod
Commission Regional Policy Plan and the 2017 Massachusetts Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan.
Goal 1. Protect the Town’s drinking water supply to meet the needs of residents and visitors today
and in the future.
Objective 1.A. Acquire open space for the purpose of protecting existing and future wellhead
sites.
Objective 1.B. Protect existing public supply wells from land-based sources of contamination.
Objective 1.C. Coordinate wastewater management planning efforts with protecting drinking
water resources.
Goal 2. Provide open space and recreation opportunities that maintain Brewster’s rural character and
small coastal community identity and support a sustainable local economy as a center for ecotourism.
Objective 2.A. Acquire and preserve lands with significant scenic, historical, cultural and/or
archaeological value.
Objective 2.B. Acquire and protect upland wooded, open field, coastal, and wetland parcels
that preserve and enhance community character.
Objective 2.C. Promote sustainable, community-based agriculture, and aquaculture practices.
Goal 3. Preserve and enhance habitat diversity and protect marine and fresh surface water resources
to maintain their important ecological functions and values to the community.
Objective 3.A. Protect marine and freshwater resources from pollution and degradation.
Objective 3.B. Protect open space for the purpose of preserving Brewster’s unique and fragile
ecological habitats and augment the Town’s network of wildlife corridors.
Objective 3.C. Acquire, preserve, and enhance natural areas to mitigate natural hazards and
increase Brewster’s resilience to climate change impacts, including projected sea
level rise.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 125
Objective 3.D. Increase public awareness of the importance of natural resource protection,
conservation management, and the impacts of climate change and natural
disasters to promote environmental stewardship.
Goal 4. Provide a variety of recreation and open space opportunities to promote healthy and active
lifestyles for Brewster residents, ensuring equitable access for all users and abilities.
Objective 4.A. Acquire and protect lands of recreational value.
Objective 4.B. Increase public access to marine and freshwater resources in a manner that is
compatible with the protection of these resources.
Objective 4.C. Ensure equitable access and usage of open space and recreation areas to all
Brewster residents and visitors.
Objective 4.D. Use a comprehensive approach for recreation land management.
Objective 4.E. Consider new programming and facilities to meet changing preferences and
needs of the community.
Objective 4.F. Enhance walking and biking opportunities that connect residential areas with
open space and recreational resources.
Objective 4.G. Plan for future pandemics that impact access to open space and recreational
resources.
Goal 5. Support coordination and communication of regional open space and recreation needs.
Objective 5.A. Coordinate the protection of drinking water resources with neighboring towns.
Objective 5.B. Participate in regional efforts to protect marine and fresh surface water
resources.
Objective 5.C. Participate in regional wastewater management planning.
Objective 5.D. Collaborate with neighboring communities and the region to increase
connectivity of multi-modal paths that cross jurisdictional boundaries.
Objective 5.E. Increase communication and collaboration with local stakeholders, neighboring
communities, and the region to investigate opportunities for shared open space
and recreation resources.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 126
SECTION 9. 7 -YEAR ACTION PLAN
This Action Plan is intended to guide future planning efforts to protect natural resources, acquire open
space, and improve recreational opportunities for the next seven years (2027). It is designed to
implement the goals and objectives outlined in Section 8 and to address the needs identified in Section 7.
The Action Plan is also intended to be consistent with other local plans, specifically those outlined in
Section 2, and, to the extent practical, the Cape Cod Commission Regional Policy Plan. Map 13
geographically depicts the desired outcome of the proposed Action Plan.
The Open Space Committee is responsible for overseeing the management and implementation of the
Action Plan with the support of numerous Town departments, boards, and committees and help from
private and non-profit stakeholders, and regional, state, and federal agencies.
For each of the action items, the Action Plan prioritizes completion, where highest priority actions will be
done by 2023, followed by actions that should be completed between 2021 and 2026, and lower priority
actions that will start by 2026 and be completed in 2027. Ongoing actions occur during the duration of
the seven-year period.
A funding source has also been identified for each action item:
• Town Department (Town Dept): the action item will be funded as part of a budgeted work
program for one or more town departments or committees.
• Town Meeting: the action item will need to be funded via Town Meeting vote.
• Grant: grant funding will be sought to complete the action item. Where known, specific grant
resources are provided.
• CPA: funding from the local Community Preservation Act
• Other: a source of funding, other than those listed above will support the action item. Where
known, further information is provided.
For each action item, one or more responsible parties have been identified. The responsible party/ parties
in bold type font in the table is/are considered the coordinating party/parties, and the others are
considered to play a supporting role.
Implementation
Implementing the Action Plan will take a coordinated effort of all responsible parties. As the entity
responsible for the OSRP, all leads in the Action Plan should report to the Open Space Committee on an
annual basis with the status of their respective action items. Timeframes are established; however, it is
recognized that circumstances may change and impact resource availability, which may cause actions to
move up or down in priority. As lead parties report out to the Open Space Committee, they should
discuss why actions could not be completed, or why others rose to the top to help prepare for the next
OSRP update as well as overall open space and recreational planning. Equally, as supporting documents,
reports, and studies used to develop the OSRP are revised, updated, and implemented, these activities
should also be reported to the Open Space Committee and documented for future OSRP updates.
Captains
Golf Course
Cape Cod
National
Golf Course
Punkhorn
Parklands
Mant's Beach
Drummer
Boy Park
Saints
Landing
Point of
Rocks Beach
Ellis Landing
Linnell
Landing
Crosby Lane
Landing
Nickerson
State Park
Cape Cod Museum
of Natural
History
Brewster Historical
Society
Museum
Ocean
Edge
Mansion
Crosby
Mansion
The
Brewster Store
Stoney Brook
Grist Mill
Pine Grove
Cemetery
Brewster
Cemetery
Sears
Cemetery
First
Parish/Breakwater
Cemetery
Old Town
Hall/Senior
Center
Captain Mayo
House/Brewster
Ladies Library
Cape Cod
Sea Camps
Cape Rep
Theatre
Brewster
Cottages
Community
Gardens
Watershed
Zone 2
1.A.2 Monitor Zone
IIs and Water
Protection Districts
2.C.1 Support Private
Shellfishing, Reseeding
shellfish beds
3.A.2 Strengthen Wetlands
Bylaw and Protect Marine
and Freshwater Wetlands
3.A.3 Restrictions
Within and Expansion of
Buffer Areas to Ponds
and Wetland Resources
3.C.3 Monitor Coastal
Erosion, Purchase Lands
to Minimize Damage to
Structures /Property
3.A.4 Monitor Lands Within
Buffer Areas to Marine
and Freshwater Resources,
Purchase Land for Protection
3.D.2 Continue
Annual Brewster
Conservation Day
4.B.3 Improve
Access to Beaches
and Ponds
4.C.4 Develop and
Distribute Self-Guided
Trail Brochures for
Natural/Cultural Areas
4.C.3 Improve Signage
to Town Open Space and
Recreation Facilities
5.D.2 Reconfigure Signage
on State-owned Roads to
Direct Cyclists/Pedestrians
to Town Destinations
5.B.2 Work With Chatham,
Harwich, Orleans, and
Stakeholders to Meet
Pleasant Bay TMDL
5.D.1 Work With
Neighboring Towns
and Stakeholders on
Joint Management of
Shared Resources
4.F.3 Increase Bikeways
and Bike Amenities at
Beaches and Parks to
Encourage Bicycling
4.F.2 Increase Pedestrian
Pathways and Amenities
to Encourage Walking
4.F.9 Continue the
Brewster Pathways
Connections Through
Town With Dennis,
Harwich , and Orleans
2.A.2 Implement the Brewster
Reconnaissance Report
Related to Historic, Scenic,
and Archaeological Resources
¯
0 1
Miles
Brewster's Action Plan Trailheads
Cape Cod Rail Trail
Public Water Zone 2
Watershed Outline
Protected Open Space
Public; Non-Profit; Private
Adjacent Town
Map 13
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 128
ACTION PLAN
Legend
ACAC – All Citizens Access Committee
AG COM – Agricultural Commission Organization
APCC – Association to Preserve Cape Cod
AUDUBON – MA Audubon
AMER – Americorps
BCT – Brewster Conservation Trust
BBHC – Brewster Historical Commission
BHS - Brewster Historical Society
BIKE – Bikeways Committee
BLDG – Building Department
BNC– Building & Needs Committee
BOH –Board of Health
COC – Chamber of Commerce
CCC – Cape Cod Commission
CCMNH –Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
CPA: Community Preservation Act
LWCF: Land and Water Conservation Fund
LAND: Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity
COA – Council on Aging
COMPACT – Compact of Cape Cod Conservation
Trusts
CONS COM – Conservation Commission
CPC – Community Preservation Committee
CWMPC – Comprehensive Water Management
Planning Committee
DCPC – District of Critical Planning Concern – All
Zone IIs and Pleasant Bay Watershed
DPW – Department of Public Works
FIRE – Fire Department
FLATS – Brewster Friends of Lands, Aquatics, Trails,
and Shellfish
MA DCR – MA Division of Conservation &
Recreation
NAT – Natural Resources Department
NHESP – MA Natural Heritage & Endangered
Species Program
OSC – Open Space Committee
OKHHDC – Old Kings Highway Historic District
Committee
PLAN – Planning Board
POLICE– Police Department
REC - Recreation Department
SB – Select Board
Water Com – Water Commissioners
Water Dept – Water Department
WQRC – Water Quality Review
Goal 1. Protect the Town’s drinking water supply to meet the needs of residents and visitors today and in the future.
Action Item Timeline
Potential
Funding Sources Responsible Parties
Objective 1.A. Acquire open space for the purpose of protecting current and future wellhead sites.
1.A.1. Identify, prioritize, and monitor lands for potential future wellhead sites and
consider opportunities for purchasing these land areas. See 2.B.1.
Ongoing Water Dept funds, CPA
funds, State LAND
Grant, Federal LWCF
OSC, Water Dept, Water
Com
1.A.2. Monitor lands within the Town’s Zone II Areas and Water Protection District
and consider opportunities for purchasing lands for open space protection.
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA funds,
Town Meeting, State
LAND Grant, Federal
LWCF
OSC, BCT, COMPACT, Water
Dept
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 129
Action Item Timeline
Potential
Funding Sources Responsible Parties
Objective 1.B. Protect existing public supply wells from land-based sources of contamination.
1.B.1. Continue to enforce the Town’s Water Quality Protection Bylaw. Ongoing Town Dept WQRC
1.B.2. Continue to work with the Cape Cod Commission, SMAST, and others to
analyze existing and projected future nitrogen loading to the Town’s drinking water
supply.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
NAT, Town Planner, BOH
1.B.3. Continue to implement the recommendations of Brewster’s Integrated Water
Resource Management Plan (IWRMP) related to public water supply protection.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
NAT, Water Dept, PLAN
Objective 1.C. Coordinate wastewater management planning efforts with protecting drinking water resources.
1.C.1. Implement the recommendations of Brewster’s IWRMP related to wastewater
management within the 20-year permit.
Ongoing
(through
2036)
Town Dept, Town
Meeting, Cape and
Island Water Protection
Fund
CWMPC, Town Planner,
PLAN, DPW, BOH
1.C.2. Continue to implement the monitoring well program in Zone II areas. Ongoing Town Dept Water Dept, NAT, WQRC
Goal 2. Provide open space and recreation opportunities that maintain Brewster’s rural character and small coastal community identity and
support a sustainable local economy as a center for ecotourism.
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources Responsible Parties
Objective 2.A. Acquire and preserve lands with significant scenic, historical, cultural, and/or archaeological value.
2.A.1. Implement the recommendations of the Brewster Reconnaissance Report
related to scenic, historic, and archaeological resources.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting, CPA Funds
PLAN, Town Planner, BHC, OSC,
PLAN, AG COM
2.A.2. Continue to identify and recommend roadways that should be designated
as scenic pursuant to MCL ch. 40 sec. 15c.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town Planner, BHC, NAT,
OKHHDC, AG COM
2.A.3. Identify and map specimen trees. Report species, age, and condition to OSC
for review, with recommendations to CPA for protection of these trees as an
article for Town Meeting.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town Planner, NAT,
CONS COM, AG COM, DPW
2.A.4. Continue to identify sites for historic designation and prepare and submit
historic designation applications to the Massachusetts Historical Commission and
the National Register of Historic Places.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting, CPA funds
BHC, BHS, AG COM
2.A.5. Continue to identify and recommend historical or archaeological sites that
the town should consider purchasing. See 2.B.1.
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA
Funds, Town
Meeting
BHC, BHS, AG COM
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 130
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources Responsible Parties
2.A.6. Create a pamphlet on historic buildings and their significance for owners
and prospective buyers as a way to encourage preservation of these sites.
2023-2026 Town Dept, CPA
funds
BHC, BHS, AG COM
2.A.7. Conduct an audit of the current Zoning Bylaws and recommend
amendments to further protect historic and archaeological resources.
2023-2026 Town Dept, Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town Planner, BHC, BHS
2.A.8. Review areas on MA Scenic Landscape Inventory for status, ownership, and
condition. Recommend measures to protect and enhance each scenic resource
identified or worthy of discussion. If lands need to be purchased or otherwise
protected, submit data to the Open Space Committee for evaluation and
recommendations to CPC for Town Meeting.
2026-2027 Town Meeting, CPA
funds
BHC, OKHHDC, BCT, PLAN, AG
COM
Objective 2.B. Acquire and protect upland wooded, open field, coastal, and wetland parcels that preserve and enhance community character.
2.B.1. Update the working priority parcel map for open space acquisition or
conservation easements using the following priority parcel evaluation criteria:
• Size (for the BCT ranking map, vacant parcels >2 acres and "under-
developed" parcels >5 acres [i.e., parcels with enough upland capable of
future subdivision {good CR candidates}])
• Certified vernal pool (NHESP data)
• Potential vernal pool (NHESP data)
• Contains wetland, buffer to wetland, or subject to coastal storm flooding
• Links to existing open space
• Wildlife habitat (presence of Biomap2 Core habitat and/or NHESP rare
species habitat areas)
• Ponds (ranking data from the Cape Cod Priority Ponds Project)
• ZOC- Zone of Contribution
• PLAAP – Priority Land Acquisition Assessment Project; possible future
wellfield lands
• Nutrient management (IWRMP)
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA
funds, Town
Meeting, State LAND
Grant, Federal
Drinking Water
Grant
OSC, NAT, CONS COM, BHC,
BCT, COMPACT
2.B.2. Continue to seek out and apply for grants to fund acquisition of open space
parcels.
Ongoing Town Dept OSC, BCT, COMPACT
2.B.3. Support BCT in public education on conservation restrictions as an approach
to land protection, and work with landowners who wish to donate parcels or
create conservation easements for open space.
Ongoing Town Meeting BCT, OSC, COMPACT
2.B.5. Continue to transfer municipally owned properties that are important for
conservation to the custody and control of the Conservation Commission.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
SB, CONS COM
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 131
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources Responsible Parties
2.B.6. Identify ways to strengthen the Town’s bylaws and regulations for open
space protection, including mandatory dedication of open space by developers,
requiring maximum practical retention of natural vegetation on-site, and other
approaches.
2020-2023 Town Dept, Town
Meeting
Town Planner, PLAN
2.B.7. Identify opportunities to connect existing open space resources with new
resources created from lot clustering, land donations, conservation easements, or
open space acquisitions.
2023-2026 Town Dept, CPA
funds, Town
Meeting
Town Planner, PLAN, OSC, BCT,
COMPACT
Objective 2.C. Promote sustainable, community-based agriculture and aquaculture practices.
2.C.1. Continue to support private shellfishing ventures and enhancement of
Town coastal resource areas by reseeding shellfish beds.
Ongoing Grants, Town
Meeting
NAT, AG COM
2.C.2. Encourage participation by town departments and residents in Arbor Days
and other government “green” campaigns.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
Tree Warden, NAT, SB, CONS
COM, DPW, Barnstable County
2.C.3. Monitor land certified under Chapter 61A and, if available under a right of
first refusal, seek to purchase or continue its use for agricultural purposes.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
AG COM, OSC, BCT, COMPACT
2.C.4. Support agricultural land use by supporting farmers markets, “buy local”
programs and other steps to support markets for locally grown produce.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
AG COM, SB, CCMNH
2.C.5. Identify opportunities for community gardens on town properties. 2020-2023 Town Dept Town Planner, OSC, REC
2.C.6. Promote Town approval/support of “Right to Farm Bylaw.” 2020-2023 Town Meeting AG COM
2.C.7. Inventory and map all lands that are currently used for agricultural purposes
and all lands that have high value or potential based on soils, parcel size, or other
factors. Identify parcels with high or potentially high agricultural value.
2023-2026 Town Dept, Town
Meeting
AG COM, BCT, COMPACT
2.C.8. Implement a shade and specimen tree program to maintain existing trees,
and plant additional trees as appropriate.
2026-2027 Town Meeting Tree Warden, NAT, CONS COM,
DPW, Barnstable County
Goal 3. Preserve and enhance habitat diversity and protect marine and fresh surface water resources to maintain their important ecological
functions and values to the community.
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
Objective 3.A. Protect marine and freshwater resources from pollution and degradation.
3.A.1. Continue to implement the recommendations of Brewster’s IWRMP related
to protection of marine and freshwater resources as well as stormwater
management.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
CWMPC, Town Planner, PLAN,
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 132
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
3.A.2. Continue to strengthen the local wetlands protection bylaw and regulations
to protect marine and freshwater wetlands from sources of pollution.
Ongoing Town Dept CONS COM, NAT, PLAN, Town
Planner
3.A.3. Consider expanding the size of protected buffer areas as well as restrictions
within buffer areas to freshwater ponds and wetland resources
Ongoing Town Dept CONS COM, NAT, PLAN, Town
Planner, BOH
3.A.4. Monitor lands within buffer areas to marine and freshwater resources, as
well as any other lands that may compromise these resources, and consider
opportunities for purchasing lands for open space protection. See 2.B.1.
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA
funds, Town
Meeting
OSC, CWMPC, BCT, COMPACT
3.A.5. Continue management and correction of tidal restrictions to promote
enhanced flushing.
Ongoing Town Dept. NAT, CONS COM, DPW
3.A.6. Require low impact development and green infrastructure practices as
approaches to protect marine and freshwater resources from stormwater
pollution through amendments to local zoning bylaws and regulations.
2020-2023 Town Dept CWMPC, PLAN, Town Planner,
CONS COM, NAT
3.A.7. Draft and adopt a stormwater management general bylaw. 2023-2026 Town Dept CWMPC, Town Planner, SB
3.A.8. Provide incentives to restore altered or degraded wetlands, buffer areas ,
and ponds.
2026-2027 Town Dept CONS COM
3.A.9. Develop incentives/regulations to encourage shared “community” docks on
freshwater ponds, as opposed to multiple docks belonging to individual owners.
2026-2027 Town Dept CONS COM
Objective 3.B. Protect open space for the purpose of preserving Brewster’s unique and fragile ecological habitats and augment the Town’s network of wildlife
corridors.
3.B.1. Revisit inventoried high priority parcels which, if protected or reclaimed as
open space, would present opportunities to link green spaces and create or re-
establish wildlife corridors between fragmented forests and critical habitat areas.
See 2.B.1.
Ongoing Town Dept OSC, NAT, BCT, COMPACT
3.B.2. Conduct an audit of the town’s local bylaws and regulations to ensure
habitat protection, particularly for rare and endangered species, and make
recommendations for amendments.
2026-2027 Town Dept PLAN, CONS COM, NAT, Town
Planner
Objective 3.C. Acquire, preserve, and enhance natural areas to mitigate natural hazards and increase Brewster’s resilience to climate change impacts,
including projected sea level rise.
3.C.1. Implement the action items identified in Brewster’s Multi-Hazard Mitigation
Plan.
Ongoing Town Dept, MVP
Action Grant
Town Planner, PLAN, SB
3.C.2. Ensure that the local floodplain zoning district bylaw is consistent with
federal and state regulations and FEMA requirements.
Ongoing Town Dept Town Planner
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 133
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
3.C.3. Continue to monitor lands within areas that are vulnerable to coastal
erosion, storm event flooding, and sea level rise, and consider additional
opportunities for purchasing these lands for open space to minimize damage to
structures and property.
Ongoing Town Dept, MVP
Action Grants, CPA
funds, Town
Meeting
OSC, PLAN, BCT, COMPACT, SB
3.C.4. Consider amendments to local bylaws and regulations that prohibit
development and re-development within areas that are vulnerable to coastal
erosion and flooding.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town Planner, CONS
COM
3.C.5. Incorporate updated climate change projections, including those for sea
level rise, precipitation, temperature, and increased storm frequency and duration
into planning decisions for future open space acquisitions as well as development
of recreation facilities.
Ongoing Town Dept Town Planner, PLAN, OSC, NAT,
REC
Objective 3.D. Increase public awareness of the importance of natural resource protection, conservation management, and the impacts of clima te change to
promote environmental stewardship.
3.D.1. Continue to organize public education and environmental stewardship
events, such as spring clean-up events, to be held at public open space areas.
Ongoing Town Dept FLATS, CONS COM, NAT, OSC,
BCT
3.D.2. Continue to host Brewster Conservation Day on an annual basis. Ongoing Town Dept NAT, BCT, Water Dept, OSC,
Barnstable County, FLATS
3.D.3. Develop outreach materials to increase the community’s knowledge about
building resilience to the impacts of climate change and steps individuals can take
to contribute.
2020-2023 MVP Action Grants Town Planner, NAT, OSC
3.D.4. Develop outreach materials about the negative impacts of lawn fertilization
and lawn irrigation on water quality. Through these efforts, show the benefits of
using more environment-friendly and organic lawn care and garden products and
methods.
2023-2026 Town Dept Town Planner, NAT, OSC
3.D.5. Engage youth to assist in conservation projects to promote awareness of
local resources and environmental stewardship.
2023-2026 Town Dept OSC, BCT, CONS COM
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 134
Goal 4. Provide a variety of recreation and open space opportunities to promote healthy and active lifestyles for Brewster residents, ensuring
equitable accessible for all users and abilities.
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
Objective 4.A. Acquire and protect lands of recreational value.
4.A.1. Inventory town-owned open space and evaluate opportunities for
recreational facilities and/or programming.
Ongoing Town Dept REC, NAT, CONS COM, OSC, SB,
ACAC
4.A.2. Protect the Town’s recreational and outdoor educational amenities that
support the local tourism economy by acquiring and preserving lands which:
• Abut Town beaches or landings.
• Provide additional public places.
• Promote fishing (finfish and shellfish) by protecting habitat
• Protect or expand walking and bicycling amenities, canoe
waterways/trails/haul-out locations or lands that would provide locations for
other activities usually associated with passive recreation as defined by MA
Division of Conservation Services.
• Provide for expanded or new recreational/open space facilities in areas of
town that are underserved.
• Expand existing public and private conservation, recreation, and open space
lands.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting, CPA funds
OSC, REC, CONS COM, ACAC,
BIKE
Objective 4.B. Increase and improve public access to marine and freshwater resources in a manner that is compatible with the protection of these resources.
4.B.1. Review regulations to control activities on freshwater ponds, e.g. personal
watercraft, use of motorized boats, horsepower limitations.
Ongoing Town Dept NAT, CONS COM, POLICE
4.B.2. Acquire land or obtain easements to provide additional sites for freshwater
swimming, beaches, and boat landings.
Ongoing CPA funds, Town
Meeting
REC, OSC, NAT
4.B.3. Improve existing access to beaches and ponds. Ongoing CPA funds, Town
Meeting
NAT, CONS COM
Objective 4.C. Ensure equitable access and usage of open space and recreation areas to all Brewster residents and visitors.
4.C.1. Use the ADA Self Evaluation and prioritized Transition Plan to address
needed accessibility improvements at open space and recreation areas. Pursue
grant funding for these improvements.
Ongoing Town Dept,
Municipal ADA
Grant
DPW, ACAD, NAT, CONS COM,
REC, SB
4.C.2. Provide additional benches for recreational areas, including trails, parks,
active recreation areas, conservation areas, and beaches.
Ongoing CPA funds REC, SB, DPW, NAT, CONS COM
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 135
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
4.C.3. Improve signage, including accessibility signage, at all Town open space and
recreation facilities, which is consistent with Town’s existing signage bylaws and
complements the Town’s community character. Prioritize signage related to the
rail trail (how to access the rail trail from Route 6A, and how to access commercial
areas from the rail trail) as well as public beaches.
Ongoing CPA funds DPW, REC, NAT, CONS COM,
SB, BIKE,
4.C.4. Continue to develop, update, publish, and broadly distribute self-guided
trail brochures with natural and cultural interpretive text and maps for areas such
as:
• The Punkhorn Parklands (done);
• Bakers Pond;
• Stony Brook Herring Run;
• Wings Island (Partially done by CCMNH); and
• Namskaket Creek Marsh.
Maps and trail brochures should be made available at locations throughout the
community, such as the police station, fire station, chamber of commerce, town
hall, and general store.
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA
funds
NAT, CONS COM, ALEWIFE
COMMITTEE, MILL SITES
COMMITTEE, BCT, COMPACT,
ACAC, CCMNH, FLATS
4.C.5. Clearly mark trails so that they are easy to navigate, and incorporate
accessibility considerations (e.g., “Braille trails”) to the greatest extent possible.
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA
funds
NAT, CONS COM, REC, CCMNH,
BCT, COMPACT, FLATS
4.C.6. Identify residential areas that lack access to recreation opportunities or
conservation areas by walking and/or biking. Identify ways to increase access.
Ongoing Town Dept NAT, CONS COM, REC
4.C.7. Provide multi-use open space and recreation areas that can be used for a
variety of uses by people of different ages and abilities.
Ongoing Town Dept REC
4.C.8. Develop multi-generational programming to bring youth and older residents
together and broaden individual experiences.
Ongoing Town Dept REC, COA
4.C.9. Use universal design concepts in the development of new playgrounds,
parks, and public spaces as well as for the upgrades and improvements to existing
facilities.
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA
funds
REC, COA, ACAC, DPW
Objective 4.D. Use a comprehensive approach for recreation land management.
4.D.1. Continue support of FLATS and encourage the establishment of other
“Friends-of-Facility” groups for conservation and recreation areas to promote
public and private involvement in recreation land management and maintenance.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
FLATS, NAT, CONS COM, DPW,
BCT, Local stables
4.D.2. Develop a Comprehensive Management Plan for Town-owned recreation
lands, including those owned by the Recreation Department and those owned by
other local government departments.
2026-2027 Town Meeting REC, NAT, CONS COM, SB
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 136
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
4.D.3. Explore ways to ensure sustained funding for recreation facility
maintenance.
2026-2027 Town Dept REC
4.D.4. Establish a position of Park Ranger under the Natural Resources
Department, to:
• Provide oversight of conservation and recreation lands.
• Provide public education concerning usage of open space/natural recreation
resources.
• Provide a “visible” presence on Town lands, on the spot “education” and/or
fines for violators of regulations, a deterrent to trash dumping on Town lands.
• The position might start out as part-time or summer job or could be a
volunteer job.
2026-2027 Town Dept NAT, CONS COM, OSC, SB,
AMER
Objective 4.E. Consider new programming and facilities to meet changing preferences and needs of the community.
4.E.1. Create separate trails/areas marked and designated for horseback riding,
walking/hiking, and/or dog walking in Town open space areas.
Ongoing Town Dept NAT, CONS COM, BIKE, LOCAL
STABLES, DPW
4.E.2. Provide active recreation areas (e.g., playgrounds, ball fields, tennis courts)
that serve Brewster’s active recreation needs.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
REC
4.E.3. Continue to develop recreational programming and opportunities for youth
and teens.
Ongoing Town Dept REC, NAT, CONS COM
4.E.4. Continue to develop active recreational programming for older residents
that also include multi-generational activities.
Ongoing Town Dept REC, COA
4.E.5. Continue to find opportunities for an age-integrated community center. Ongoing Town Dept NAT, REC, COA, SB
4.E.6. Identify potential sites for an off-leash dog park. 2020-2023 Town Dept, Town
Meeting
DOG PARK COMMITTEE, SB,
CONS COM, NAT
Objective 4.F. Enhance walking and biking opportunities that connect residential areas with open space and recreational resources.
4.F.1. Educate the public regarding the benefits of walking and biking. Ongoing CPA funds, Town
Meeting
BIKE, REC
4.F.2. Increase pedestrian pathways and amenities, such as benches, to encourage
walking. Evaluate connections between recreation areas and open space
resources and neighborhoods and commercial areas to determine where
pathways or sidewalks are needed.
Ongoing CPA funds,
MassDOT Complete
Streets Grant, Town
Meeting
NAT, BIKE, DPW, SB, CONS COM
4.F.3. Increase bikeways, bike trails, and bike lanes as well as bicycle amenities,
such as bike racks, to encourage bicycling. Review whether additional bicycle racks
are needed at recreation areas such as beaches and parks. Consider where there
are missing links between existing bikeways and bike paths.
Ongoing CPA funds,
MassDOT Complete
Streets Grants,
Town Meeting
BIKE, Police, NAT, OSC, SB,
DPW, REC, MA DCR
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 137
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
4.F.4. Distribute education materials that promote safer interaction between
bicyclists and motorists. Continue to make improvements, such as lighting and
roadway signage, that alert the auto drivers of potential cyclists or roadway
striping that delineates separate spaces for autos and cyclists.
Ongoing CPA funds, Town
Meeting
BIKE, DPW, POLICE, SB
4.F.5. Enforce regulations/laws for both motorists and bicyclists. Ongoing Town Dept POLICE
4.F.6. Continue to update the Brewster Bikeways Map, which identifies safe and
attractive bicycle routes in Brewster. Consider new technology that promotes
increased knowledge and access to the map and the Town’s resources (e.g.
smartphone app)
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
BIKE
4.F.7. Continue to move forward towards developing a prioritization plan (Tier 2)
and become eligible for funding to implement key projects as part of the
Complete Streets Program.
Ongoing Town Meeting,
MassDOT Complete
Streets Grant
SB, BIKE, DPW, BNC, PLAN,
Town Planner
4.F.8. Continue with the Brewster Pathways connections through Town, to
Harwich, Dennis, and Orleans. Publicize pathways and provide guides for
residents/visitors.
2023-2026 CPA funds, Town
Meeting
NAT, OSC, BCT, COMPACT
4.F.9. Identify and develop alternate bicycle routes and/or paths that bicyclists
would prefer as an alternative to on-road routes. Consider possible alternative
routes for large cycling events.
2026-2027 CPA funds,
MassDOT Complete
Streets Grants,
Town Meeting
BIKE, POLICE, SB, DPW
Objective 4.G. Plan for future local, regional, and national incidences that impact public access to open space and recreational resources.
4.G.1. Document lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic related to the
need for open space and recreational opportunities by residents. Consider:
• Where was the town successful?
• Where were their gaps or needs not met?
• Where is more information needed?
2020-2023 Town Dept REC, NAT, CONS COM, Town
Planner, SB, DPW, COA
4.G.2. Collaborate with neighboring communities and the Cape Cod Commission
to share experiences and ideas on how to plan for services related to open space
and recreation during another pandemic or national incident that requires social
distancing or self-quarantine.
2023-2026 Town Dept REC, NAT, CONS COM, Town
Planner, SB, DPW, COA
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 138
Goal 5. Support coordination and communication of regional open space and recreation needs.
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
Objective 5.A. Coordinate the protection of drinking water resources with neighboring towns.
5.A.1. Continue working with neighboring towns, such as Dennis, Harwich and
Orleans, to protect shared groundwater resources and overlapping wellfield
recharge areas.
Ongoing Town Dept, CPA
funds, Town
Meeting
CWMPC, Town Planner, Water
Dept, NAT
Objective 5.B. Participate in regional efforts to protect marine and fresh surface water resources.
5.B.1. Continue to work with neighboring towns as well as federal, state and
regional stakeholders on the joint management of shared resources, such as:
• Cape Cod Bay - Dennis, Orleans and the State of Massachusetts
• Pleasant Bay - Orleans, Chatham, Harwich
• Long Pond - Harwich, State of Massachusetts
• Quivett Creek – Dennis
• Namskaket Creek – Orleans
• Herring River- Harwich, Dennis
• Bass River- Dennis
• Inner Cape Cod Bay Area of Critical Environmental Concern - Brewster,
Orleans, Eastham
• Coastal Plain Pond Shores and Priority Habitat (Cahoon Pond, Mill Pond,
Grassy Pond, Mud Pond, Black Pond, Seymour Pond, Round Pond) – Harwich
• Bakers Pond - Coastal Plain Pond Shores and Priority Habitat – Orleans.
Ongoing Town Dept SB, CONS COM, NAT, Water
Dept, CWMPC
5.B.2. Continue to work with the towns of Orleans, Chatham, and Harwich as well
as federal, state, and regional stakeholders on meeting the requirements of the
Pleasant Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL).
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
CWMPC, Town Planner, PLAN,
NAT, CONS COM, PBA
5.B.3. Continue to work with neighboring communities on improving degraded
waters and meeting TMDL requirements for waterbodies as they are listed and
TMDLs are developed (e.g. Herring River and Bass River watersheds)
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
CWMPC, Town Planner, PLAN,
NAT, CONS COM
5.B.4. Continue to partner with the Cape Cod Commission and SMAST through the
PALS program to monitor Brewster’s pond water quality.
Ongoing Town Dept NAT, CONS COM
5.B.5. As TMDLS are approved for watersheds, incorporate them into the Water
Protection Bylaw.
Ongoing Town Dept, Town
Meeting
Town Planner, PLAN
Objective 5.C. Participate in regional wastewater management planning.
5.C.1. Implement the recommendations of Brewster’s Integrated Water Resource
Management Plan related to regional coordination.
Ongoing Town Dept,
Town Meeting
CWMPC, PLAN, Town Planner,
BOH, SB, CONS COM, NAT
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 139
Action Item Timeline
Potential Funding
Sources
Responsible Parties
Objective 5.D. Collaborate with neighboring communities and the region to increase connectivity of multi-modal paths that cross jurisdictional boundaries.
5.D.1. Continue to work with neighboring towns as well as federal, state, and
regional stakeholders on the joint management of existing shared recreation
resources, such as:
• Punkhorn Parklands - Harwich
• Cape Cod Rail Trail - Dennis, Harwich, Orleans
• Cape Cod Pathways Trail - Dennis, Harwich, Orleans
Ongoing Town Dept REC, NAT
5.D.2. Work with the Commonwealth to reconfigure signage to existing state-
owned roadways and bikeways to direct cyclists/pedestrians to various Town
destinations, e.g. beaches, visitor information center, Town Hall, restaurants,
restrooms, etc. Mark existing connections to State Bike Trail. Provide and mark
additional connections.
Ongoing Town Dept BIKE, SB, DPW
Objective 5E. Increase communication and collaboration with local stakeholders, neighboring communities, and the region to in vestigate opportunities for
shared open space and recreation resources.
5.E.1. Increase communication and collaboration among key stakeholders
involved in identifying and protecting open space in Brewster, such as, but not
limited to:
• The Brewster Conservation Trust
• The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts
• The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
• Association to Preserve of Cape Cod (APCC)
• The Nature Conservancy
• Orenda Wildlife Trust
• Mass Audubon
• Ducks Unlimited
• The Trust for Public Land
• Brewster Ponds Coalition
• DCR/Nickerson State Park and Bike Trail
Ongoing Town Dept OSC, BCT, COMPACT, NAT,
CONS COM
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 140
SECTION 10. PUBLIC COMMENTS
A. Public Input
Public comments are provided in Appendix X. They include the results of the OSRP Community Survey,
administered between April 11 to May 12, 2020, and comments received during the public meeting on
June 18, 2020.
B. Letters of Support
Letters of support were collected from the Brewster Select Board, Brewster Planning Board, and Cape
Cod Commission. They are provided in Appendix X.
Pending
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 141
SECTION 11. REFERENCES
Armstrong, DS, TA Richards, and SB Levin, 2011. Factors Influencing Riverine Fish Assemblages in
Massachusetts. Scientific Investigations Report 2011–5193, 58p. United States Geological Survey,
Northborough, Massachusetts. http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2011/5193.
Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC). 2011. Agricultural Land Use on Cape Cod: Looking to the Future.
http://apcc.org/agriculture/index.html
Business NH Magazine (BNHM). October 1998. The National Association of Home Builders.
Cape Cod Commission. 2019. Regional Policy Plan.
Chamber of Commerce/Board of Trade United (COC/BTU). 1999. Brewster 1999.
Cohen, Russell. 1997. Fact Sheet #3: Functions of Riparian Areas for Wildlife Habitat. Massachusetts
Department of Fish and Game.
http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/der/riverways/pdf/riparian_factsheet_3.pdf
Dunford, Fred and G. O’Brien. October, 1997. Secrets in the Sand: The Archaeology of Cape Cod. Parnassus
Imprints; 1ST edition.
Hay, John. 1979. The Undiscovered Country.
Horsley Witten Group, Inc. 2013. Town of Brewster Integrated Water Resource Management Plan Phase II
Final Report.
Horsley Witten Group, Inc. March 28, 2019. Summary of Findings: Brewster Municipal Vulnerability
Preparedness Workshop.
Horsley Witten Group, Inc. and Brewster Coastal Advisory Group. September 20, 2016. Brewster Coastal
Adaptation Strategy.
LeBlanc, Guswa, Frimpter, and Londquist, 1986. Groundwater Resources of Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
USGS HA-692.
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. June 2015. Section 7: Roland C. Nickerson
State Park. Resource Management Plan: Nickerson (Cape & Island Complex).
Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA). May 2007. Final Pleasant Bay
System Total Maximum Daily Loads For Total Nitrogen. Report # 96-TMDL-12, Control #244.0
Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA). 2013. Massachusetts
Watersheds: Cape Cod Watershed. http://www.mass.gov/eea/air-water-climate-change/preserving-
water-resources/mass-watersheds/cape-cod-watershed.html
Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). 1999. Stormwater Strategies: Community Responses to Runoff
Pollution. Washington, DC.
Northeast Climate Science Center (NECSC). 2012. The Northeast Region and the Climate Challenge.
http://necsc.umass.edu/northeast-climate
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 142
Oldale, 1969. Geologic Map of the Harwich Quadrangle Barnstable County, Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
USGS Map GQ-786.
Ridley & Associates, Inc. and Brewster Coastal Committee. 2019. Coastal Resources Management Plan:
Phase I Report.
Saint, Paul F. 1996. The Saints of Brewster, 1856-1996.
Thoreau, Henry David. January, 2006. Cape Cod. Norton & Co., New York.
Town of Brewster. 2011. Brewster Water Department – 2011 Annual Water Quality Report
Town of Brewster. 2013a (accessed June 21, 2013). Brewster Cemetery Commission Website.
http://www.town.brewster.ma.us/committees-mainmenu-29/cemetery-commission-mainmenu-73
Town of Brewster. 2013b (accessed June 21, 2013). Brewster Council on Aging Website.
http://www.town.brewster.ma.us/departments-mainmenu-26/council-on-aging-mainmenu-35
Town of Brewster. 2018. The Town of Brewster Vision Plan.
Town of Brewster. March 7, 2016. Coastal Beach Access Survey.
Town of Brewster, Brewster Bikeways Committee. March 2016. Biking Brewster: A Strategy to Enhance
Biking in Brewster.
Town of Brewster, Council on Aging Advisory Board. December 2017. Brewster Council on Aging Age-
Friendly Action Plan FY19-FY23.
University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth School of Marine Science and Technology Coastal Systems
(SMAST) Group and Cape Cod Commission (CCC) Water Resources Program. 2009. Brewster
Freshwater Ponds: Water Quality Status and Recommendations for Future Activities .
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2012. Water: Habitat Protection.
http://water.epa.gov/type/oceb/habitat/habitat_index.cfm
Water Resource Services (WRS). May, 2013. Long Pond Post-Treatment Summary Report through 2012.
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
Town Open Space Accomplishments Timeline
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 APPENDICES
APPENDIX B
Summary of Community Survey
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 APPENDICES
APPENDIX C
Brewster Archaeological Sensitivity Map
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 APPENDICES
APPENDIX D
Brewster Open Space and Recreational Resources Inventory
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 APPENDICES
APPENDIX E
Lands Owned by the Brewster Conservation Trust
Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan | 2021 APPENDICES
APPENDIX F
ADA Self Evaluation
APPENDIX A: TOWN OPEN SPACE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
PAST PLANS/ACHIEVEMENTS
The following compilation includes a number of activities, action, plans that have occurred over the past
eighty-seven (87) years that have affected the quality of life, the natural resources and character of Brewster.
1934: NICKERSON STATE PARK
In 1934, Addie Nickerson and Helen Nickerson Sears gifted their Bungalow Estate to the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts, in memory of Roland C. Nickerson, Senior and Junior. Comprising nearly 1800 acres of
land, this donation became Nickerson State Park, the first area to be put aside for open space and recreation
in the Town. Today it is a shining jewel of the Massachusetts forest and park system.
1950s: METCALF & EDDY MASTER PLAN
1954: CAPE COD MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
On February 20, 1954, Kathryn Berrien, Ruth Francis Clark along with Admont Clark, Ann Thatcher,
Harry Holl, John Hay and Scott Corbett met around a table and after a long brainstorming session came
up with the name – Cape Cod Junior Museum and they adopted this statement of purpose: “to encourage
and enable the children of Cape Cod, and also their parents and teachers, to study the plant, animal, and
marine life which abounds so profusely in this region…opening the eyes of children to their relationship
with the natural world around them".
The Museum first met at the Brewster Town Hall, then relocated to a tent on an 80-acre site on a salt
marsh on Cape Cod Bay, purchased by the founders. In the early 1960s, a small building replaced the tent.
Today, the Museum is housed in a 17,000 square foot building. Three hundred acres of town conservation
land now border the Museum's original site.
The Museum offers collections-based exhibits, including whales and birds, live marine science exhibits,
educational and environmental educational programs for adults and children, and many off-site nature
tours. There are three nature trails and a wildflower garden. It offers indoor and outdoor programs and
activities including several miles of walking trails and extensive wetland resource areas. The John Wing
Trail (1.3 miles) leads across the saltmarsh, north to Wings Island and finally descends to the barrier
beach and Cape Cod Bay. To the south, across Route 6A, is the Lee Baldwin Trail (1 mile) which runs
through the salt marsh, across Stony Brook to a large Beech Forest. The Stony Brook Herring Run starts
at this marsh and runs all the way to the Upper and Lower Mill Ponds and the Millsites on Stony Brook
Road. The Museum owns a total of 73.24 acres.
EARLY ENDEAVORS BY THE TOWN
During the 1960s, Brewster voters approved the acquisition of nearly all of its coastal salt marshes. These
purchases provided strong protection for these areas many years before the value of wetlands was fully
realized and received added protection through the State.
1970’s
1970 MASTER PLAN
In 1970, a Master Plan was prepared for Brewster by the consultant firm of Metcalf and Eddy. The Plan
was quite comprehensive in its coverage of planning issues and land use information, yet the final result
was a clear, simple vision for Brewster's future:
1. Maintain the rural character of a small Cape Cod Town.
2. Maintain the residential character of the Town, primarily in single-family dwellings.
3. Maintain a commercial base sized principally for services to the year-round and seasonal residents of
Brewster.
4. Limit development in accordance with the physical ability of the land to accommodate it and in
accordance with the Town's ability to provide essential services.
5. Maintain a substantial portion of open space, conserving the particular natural landscape features of Cape
Cod.
This Master Plan proposed a blueprint for future development, dividing the Town's 16,000 acres with 9,000
acres (56%) in residential use, 400 acres (3%) commercial/industrial use and 6,500 acres (41%) in open
space/water use.
The Plan warned of major new development pressures. Brewster was ripe for development. The wave of
development arrived. The affects were massive. Whereas in 1970, Metcalf & Eddy had estimated a 1985
Brewster population of 2960: by the year 1980, the year round population was already 5,226! 1
According to the Cape Cod Planning and Economic Development Commission, in 1984 Brewster was the
fourth most rapidly growing community in the entire State of Massachusetts. The 1970 Master Plan called
for 6,500 acres of Brewster to be left as open space and recreation land. The Town did not start to purchase
large tracts of land until the l980s. 2
NATURAL RESOURCES PROGRAM OF THE TOWN OF BREWSTER
The Brewster Conservation Commission requested assistance from the Barnstable Conservation District to
review and survey the natural resources of the Town. The objective was to supply natural resource
development alternatives as a guide for preparation of an Open Space Plan. 3
1973: OLD KING’S HIGHWAY REGIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT: 1973 TM
In 1973, this Historic District was established to protect historic areas along Route 6A. The National
Register Historic District covers roughly Route 6A from east of Paines Creek Road to Bittersweet Drive
and parts of Briar and Lower Roads. Further information concerning these districts can be found in Section
3b. History of the Community. 4
1976: BIRD SANCTUARY
Acquired January 6, 1976, this 2 acre parcel is located between Upper Mill and Lower Mill Ponds.
This land was given to the Town for a Bird Sanctuary per Public Trust and provides water access between
these two great ponds via small non powered watercraft.
1978: CAPE COD RAIL TRAIL
In 1965 the Cape Cod Central Railroad railway was abandoned for transport. DEM purchased about 18
miles of the rail right-of-way in 1978 from the Penn Central Transportation Company. In 1984 it added 2
miles in Eastham, bringing the trail to the Cape Cod National Seashore’s Salt Pond Visitor Center. With
funding from the MA Highway Department, DEM developed it into a paved trail for bicycling, horseback
riding, hiking and jogging. Legislation was passed enabling the Town of Orleans to transfer an easement
1 Metcalf & Eddy, 1970 Master Plan, (Town of Brewster, 1970).
2 Cape Cod Planning & Economic Development Commission: Report.
3 Barnstable Conservation District, Natural Resources Program, (Town of Brewster 1970).
4 Zoning Code Old King’s Highway Regional Historic District Overlay: Zoning Code, (Town of Brewster).
of land to DEM along the rail-bed from Brewster to Eastham. The corridor has recently been extended to
South Wellfleet. 5
1978: CONSERVATION-RECREATION LAND USE PLAN
The Conservation Commission: Members: Robert Franklin, Chair, Clifford Barnes, Brenda Boleyn, Ernest
Gage, Paul Grueninger, Peter Peck, Alice Tonis, Associates: Barbara Albret, Robert Finch. The Plan was
prepared by Mr. David Boutin, MA Audubon Society Environmental Intern according to the planning
guidelines issued by the Secretary of the Division of Conservation Services.
The plan presented six (6) priority recommendations:
1. Preserving wildlife habitat
2. A number of the remaining large tracts of land should be set aside for conservation and recreation
3. Cooperative efforts with adjacent communities to create joint open space lands.
4. Acquisition of additional watershed land
5. Preserve useable open space through well-designed cluster zoning
6. Obtain Conservation Restrictions and Easements to help alleviate the high cost of acquiring land through
purchase. 6
1978: OPEN SPACE PLAN
With more than 200% growth between 1970 and 1978, a new plan was written and new goals were
formulated. The Plan was an action proposal for the acquisition of a large watershed area in Brewster.
Such lands were indicated as high priority for water quality planning, as well as an expressed desire for
expanded bike and hiking trails. The Plan also recommended pond shore acquisition for recreation and
suggested revisions for the improvement of cluster zoning by-laws. 7
1980’s
1980’s: ROLAND C. NICKERSON STATE PARK
During the 1980’s, with the cooperation of the Town of Brewster, DEM successfully organized an
acquisition that connected Nickerson State Park to Cape Cod Bay. The acquisition of approximately 90
acres was completed in 1986, bringing the total park to over 1900 acres.
The land is located between Crosby Lane and Linnell Road, and includes beach frontage between two Town
landings at the end of these two Town roads, as well as the Crosby Estate. The state land also includes a
barrier spit that stretches eastward from Crosby Landing. The spit and salt marsh that has developed in this
area in the sheltered area behind it are within the western end of the Inner Cape Cod Bay – Area of Critical
Environmental Concern (ACEC). (See Map B)
1982: TOWN-WIDE SURVEY
A Citizen Study Committee used a Town-wide questionnaire to update basic goals. Residents
overwhelmingly wanted to maintain a rural small Town character. Natural open space and recreational
facilities were very important and residents were willing to spend Town funds to acquire open space. 8
1983: REGIONAL SEWER PLANT IN ORLEANS: January 1983 TM
5 Department of Environmental Management, State of Massachusetts, Guidelines for Operations and Land
Stewardship: Nickerson State Park, (Boston, 1993).
6 David Boutin, Recreation Land Use Plan, (Town of Brewster,1978)
7 Conservation Commission, Open Space and Recreation Plan, (Town of Brewster, 1978)
8 Citizen’s Study Committee, Town-wide Survey, (Town of Brewster, 1982).
January 6, 1983 Special Town Meeting – Article 26 approved $30,000 for Brewster’s share of Phase 1
design costs for regional sewage plant in Orleans, Massachusetts.9
1983: GROUNDWATER MONITORING AT LANDFILL: January 1983 TM
January 6, 1983 Special Town Meeting – Article 28 approved $15,000 for implementation of groundwater
monitoring in and around the Sanitary Landfill. 10(Located on Run Hill Road in West Brewster.)
1983: THE EGG PARK PROPERTY: May 1983 TM
May 6, 1983 Annual Town Meeting –Article35 approved $9,600 for an eminent domain taking of a parcel
of less than one acre, owned by the First Parish Church Society a/k/a First Unitarian Universalist Society
of Cape Cod, known as “the Egg”, to be a Town Park in perpetuity.11
Total cost: $9,600
1983: CAPTAINS GOLF COURSE PROPERTY: May 1983 TM
With recreation an important priority of the residents of Brewster, May 6, 1983 Annual Town Meeting –
Article 41 -approved the purchase of forty-one parcels of land, totaling 130.7 acres for $400,000, for a
municipal Golf Course.12 This approval led to the creation of The Captains Golf Course, now one of the
pre-eminent courses on Cape Cod.
Total Cost: $400,000
1983: BUILDING MORATORIUM: May 1983 TM
May 6, 1983 Annual Town Meeting- Article 37 – approved a one year moratorium on Multi-family
Dwellings and Planned Unit Developments to allow the Planning Board time to prepare and submit a
program for guiding such development.13 This Moratorium then extended for a second year. As a result of
this “time-out” 17 Zoning article were passed at the May 14, 1984 Annual Town Meeting.
1983: MILL POND PROPERTY: May 1983 TM
May 6, 1983 Annual Town Meeting– Article 48 -approved the “Mill Pond
Acquisition” consisting of nine parcels located on either side of Westgate Road and abutting the Punkhorn
Parklands, totaling 25 acres for $50,000. The Town also received $40,000 in State Self-help Grant funds
towards this purchase.14
Total Cost: $50,000
1983: INTERIM OPEN SPACE PLAN
An interim Open Space and Recreation Plan Update was prepared in 1983 by the Conservation
Commission. Revised and expanded goals were:
*Protection of streams, ponds, wetlands & aquifers
*Protection of special environmental areas to retain ecological diversity and a variety of habitats
*To retain the visual beauty and natural appearance of Brewster for future generations
*Assure continued recreational amenities
*Work with bordering communities for mutual open space planning efforts 15
9 Town of Brewster, 1983 Annual Reports for the 12 Month Period Ending June 30 , (Brewster, 1983). P. 108.
10 Town Of Brewster, 1983 Annual Reports For The 12 Month Period Ending June 30 , (Brewster, 1983). P. 108.
11 Town of Brewster, 1983 Annual Reports For The 12 Month Period Ending June 30 , (Brewster, 1983). p. 121.
12 Ibid. p. 123.
13 Ibid. P. 130
14 Ibid., p. 133
15 1983 Interim Open Space and Recreation Plan, (Town of Brewster).
1984: THE LAND ACQUISITION COMMITTEE: May 16, 1984 TM
May 1984 Annual Town Meeting – Article 117 – approved establishment of the Brewster Land Acquisition
Committee.16 During its four years of existence the Land Acquisition Committee helped the Town acquire
nearly 1,000 acres of open space for conservation, watershed protection, recreation, and other municipal
uses.
Committee members: Robert Finch, Steven Eldredge, Paul Wightman, Don Schellenberger, Phyllis Cosand,
Patricia Hughes, Don Biron, Rick Larsen. Staff: Dave Palmer – Coordinator, Mario DiGregorio & Tina
Balog, Conservation Administrators and Susan Strumski.
OTHER 1980S STUDIES
1. Two surveys were conducted by the State's Natural Heritage Program. 17 18
2. A new detailed Rare Plant Survey was performed by Mario DiGregorio. 19
3. A major Natural Resource Inventory was designed and coordinated by the Soil Conservation Service. 20
1983: THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST (BCT)
“Founded in 1983 when the Cape was just emerging from its last recession, development was beginning to
boom, oil companies had stopped drilling on George's Bank, the EPA had designated Cape Cod as a Sole
Source Aquifer, Ocean Edge was beginning construction, and the Punkhorn was still mostly private land.
Since that time the Brewster Conservation Trust has preserved 200+ acres of land or an average of l4 acres per
year. Their first ambitious purchase of land was Windmill Meadows on Route 6A, in front of the l8th Century
Smock Windmill (moved from Ellis Landing in l974, restored in l975-76 and opened to the public by the
Brewster Historical Society in l976) and the Harris-Black House (cl795, dismantled in l982 at its Red Top Road
location, rebuilt in l984 near the Windmill and opened to the public in l984).”21
The Brewster Conservation Trust encouraged voters to approve the Town's land acquisition proposals. The
Town also adopted a Conservation Restriction Program at the Trust's urging.
A 15 acre farm field, located on Lower Road, was donated to the BCT by Ruth and Mary Louise Eddy
for use as a Community Garden. This ambitious program serves over fifty (50) Town families at this time.
The BCT Scholarship Program awards $1,000 a year to a deserving senior.
The BCT continues to work cooperatively with the Town on our mutual goal of acquiring and preserving as
much open space land as possible.
1984: UPDATE 1970 MASTER PLAN: January 1984 TM
January 17, 1984 Special Town Meeting – Article 14 –approved $2,000 to be used along with a State grant
for updating the 1970 Master Plan.22
1984: UPPER MILL POND PARCEL: May 1984 TM
May 14, 1984 Special Town Meeting- Article 7 –approved eminent domain taking of nine (9) parcels in a
deed from Homcorp. Inc. for Conservation and Watershed resources.23
16 Town of Brewster, 1984 Annual Reports for the 12 Month Period Ending June 30 , (Brewster, 1984). P.152.
17 MA Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program Study
18 MA Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program Study
19 Mario DiGregorio, Rare Plant Survey, (Falmouth).
20 Soil Conservation Service, Natural Resource Inventory, (Barnstable County).
21 Brewster Conservation Trust, Newsletter (Brewster,
22 Town of Brewster, 1984 Annual Reports, (Brewster, 1984). P.119.
23 Ibid. p. 158.
1984: FREY PROPERTY: December 10, 1984 TM
Special Town Meeting, Article 5. approved purchase of three parcels, containing 116 acres of land for
Wellhead Protection. These lands were purchased for $475,218, with the Town receiving a Department of
Environmental Quality Engineering grant for an Aquifer Land Acquisition Projects in the amount of
$475,218. This purchase provided a substantial buffer for Wells #1 and #2.24
Total Cost: 475,218 DEQE grant $475,218
1984: THE BREWSTER WETLANDS PROTECTION BY-LAW: December 10, 1984 TM
Acclaimed as a “model by-law”, this gave the Conservation Commission increased jurisdiction, regulation
and home rule for the protection of local wetlands and their environmental values, above and beyond the
protection afforded by the MA Wetlands Protection Act. 25
1984: WETLAND CONSERVANCY DISTRICT
The Wetland Conservancy District (§179-6) is intended to preserve and maintain the surface water and
groundwater that support public water supplies, as well as natural habitats. Lands within the districts
include those that border vegetated wetlands, freshwater banks, land subject to flooding, land under a
freshwater body, land under the ocean, coastal beaches, barrier beaches, rocky intertidal shores, land
under salt ponds, fish runs, coastal dunes, coastal banks, salt marshes and land containing shellfish which
are subject to the jurisdiction of the Wetlands Protection Act, MGL c.131, § 40, as amended. They also
include specific soil types identified in the bylaw. Uses allowed in Wetland Conservancy Districts are
those associated with outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and boating, among other uses that
promote and maintain the natural features in these areas.
1984: CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT BYLAW
While not mandatory, cluster development is promoted in Brewster to allow for more flexible residential
subdivision design in order to preserve natural features of a property. Under the Cluster Residential
Development Bylaw (§179-35) any parcel of at least 10 acres in size in the R-R, R-L and R-M Districts
may use cluster development design. The bylaw requires at least 60% of a site be set aside as open space,
which must be permanently protected for passive recreational purposes such as walking or riding trails or
wildlife corridors and habitats. Important resources such as wetlands and watersheds are protected.
1985: TWO YEAR DEVELOPMENT MORATORIUM.
Town Meeting endorsed a two-year moratorium on sub-divisions in the “R-R” zoning district for over 1,000
acres of undeveloped land in the Punkhorn area to allow careful study and planning. 26
1985: OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION PLAN
The 1985 Conservation Commission members need to be once again recognized for their energy and hard
work, which produced the 1985 Plan, and for their enduring ideas, which were incorporated into the 1999
and 2006 Plans. These members were Robert Finch, Co-Chairman, William Henchy, Co-Chairman,
Stephan Berrick, Robert M. Franklin, Paul Grueninger, Rickard Larsen, Peter C. Peck, William Girolamo
and Paul Wightman, LAC reps - Don Biron and Phyllis Cosand, Dan Cahill-Recreation Department. Of
inestimable assistance were consultant Peter Ryner, Architect Malcolm Wells (cover and interior drawings),
Mark Robinson (Cape Cod Planning and Economic Development Commission (CCPEDC), Rick
DeVirgilio and Karen Reddish (Soil Conservation Services), Jack Clarke (MA Coastal Zone Management-
MCZM) and Joel Lerner and Staff (MA Division of Conservation Services).
24 Town of Brewster 1985 Annual Reports, (Brewster, 1985). P.120
25 Brewster, Wetlands Protection By-Law, (Brewster, 1984).
26 Town Meeting, Zoning Ordinance, (Brewster, 1985).
The 1985 Open Space and Recreation Plan reflected a new awareness by the Town of the precious and
fragile nature of its natural resources. The Plan was a blueprint for action to assure wise use and long term
continuance of some of Cape Cod's most valuable remaining natural areas.
1985 projections estimated a population increase to 8,000 by 1990 and 10,000 by the year 2000. Clearly
there was a need for re-evaluation and action. The 1985 Open Space and Recreation Plan recognized that
"The vision of a rural Brewster in harmony with its special natural setting and constrained by its sma ll
Town infrastructure was endangered by rapid growth which appeared to be overwhelming the Cape."
One of the key conclusions of that Plan was that Brewster had to act then (in 1985) if there was to be any
significant open space in Brewster's future. There had to be an all-out effort to ensure the long-range
protection of the Town's natural heritage. It was not just the beauty and character of the Town that was at
stake, but the very survival of the community.
Based on recommendations of the 1985 Open Space and Recreation Plans; hard work by the Land
Acquisition Committee, the Conservation Commission and with overwhelming support from Town Hall
and Town residents; the Town 's accomplishments of the last fourteen years have been significant. Over
1,000 acres of sensitive land have come under permanent protection for watershed and conservation
purposes. 27
ACEC: AREA OF CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN:
Areas of Critical Environmental Concern are places in Massachusetts that receive special recognition
because of the quality, uniqueness and significance of their natural and cultural resources. These areas are
identified and nominated at the community level and are reviewed and designated by the state’s Secretary
of Environmental Affairs. ACEC designation creates a framework for local and regional stewardship of
critical resources and ecosystems.
There are two designated ACECs within the Town of Brewster: the Pleasant Bay ACEC and the Inner
Cape Cod Bay ACEC.
Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC: 1985
The 2,600-acre Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC covers three Towns (Eastham, Orleans and Brewster), 15% of
the area being within the Town of Brewster. The Inner Cape Cod Bay ACEC was nominated by the
Conservation Commissions, Boards of Selectmen, and Planning Boards from the Towns of Brewster,
Eastham, and Orleans and was designated as an ACEC in 1985 because of the area’s extraordinary natural
resources. The boundary for this ACEC generally follows the 10-foot contour line on the landward side,
and the mean low water on the seaward side, and extends from First Encounter Beach south to include
Namskaket Creek. Included within the ACEC boundary are hundreds of acres of saltmarsh, highly
productive shellfish beds, undisturbed wildlife habitat, barrier beaches, salt ponds, and tidal rivers and
creeks. These areas provide flood control, storm damage prevention, improved water quality, and
recreation opportunities to surrounding communities. Brewster’s coastal resources, which are either
partially or entirely included in the ACEC, include Cape Cod Bay, Namskaket Creek, and the barrier
beach south of Namskaket Creek.
Pleasant Bay ACEC: 1987
The 9,240-acre Pleasant Bay ACEC covers four Towns (Orleans, Chatham, Harwich and Brewster), less
than 1% of the area being within the Town of Brewster. The Pleasant Bay ACEC was nominated by the
Conservation Commissions, Boards of Selectmen, and Planning Boards from the Towns of Brewster,
Chatham, Harwich, and Orleans and was designated as an ACEC in 1987 because of the area’s
27 Open Space Committee, Open Space and Recreation Plan, (Town of Brewster, 1985).
extraordinary natural resources. The boundary for this ACEC generally follows a 100-foot buffer to the
10-foot contour line and includes wetlands and waterbodies that outflow into Pleasant Bay. Over 1,000
acres of salt marsh and several hundred acres of tidal flats are found in the ACEC. Other important
habitats include islands, salt and freshwater ponds, rivers, bays, and barrier beaches. These areas provide
flood control, storm damage prevention, improved water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreation
opportunities to surrounding communities.
1985: THE CASTIGLIONI PROPERTY – “SPRUCE HILL”: August 1985 TM
Spring Town Meeting approved the purchase of one parcel, totaling 24.531 acres of land located in East
Brewster on Route 6A. State Self-Help Funds and Federal Land & Water Conservation Fund Assistance
contributed to this purchase. This parcel, purchased for Conservation purposes connects to Cape Cod Bay,
providing residents and visitors a lovely public access to saltwater. This parcel also contained a house and
two barns, which have since been leased by the Brewster Historical Society and currently house their
Museum.
1986: BREWSTER WETLANDS PROTECTION REGULATIONS: May 27, 1986 TM
The Conservation Commission significantly strengthened protection of the Town’s Wetlands by
promulgating a detailed set of Regulations to supplement the Brewster Wetlands Protection By-Law. These
represented the first set of local Wetlands Protection Regulations to be enacted in the Commonwealth.
They were hailed as a model for regulation to be enacted by Towns statewide. Copies of the Regulations
were requested by Towns on and off Cape, as well as by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation
Commissions.
The Brewster Wetlands Protection By-law and Regulations are more stringent than the State Wetlands
Protection Act in several distinct areas. For example, the Brewster Wetlands Protection By-law extends
the wetland values protected in the By-law to include: groundwater quality, water quality in the numerous
ponds of the Town, erosion and sedimentation control, and aesthetics and historic values. These values
are above and beyond the values listed in the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act Regulations. The
Town also extends applicability to include land subject to inundation by groundwater or surface water,
which goes beyond the state’s regulations.
1986: THE PUNKHORN PARKLANDS CONSERVATION AREA: May 1986
This magnificent compilation of 835 acres created the Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area. This
acquisition included:
*Camp Mitton (The Boys and Girls Camp) Property three parcels, totaling 39.8 acres of land,
for $555,000. The Town received grant monies of $275,000 towards this purchase.
*May 1986: Francis Property
Town Meeting also approved purchase of this single 25-acre parcel for $900,000.
*May 1986: The Alexander Property
Town Meeting approved $155,000 to purchase this 18.15 acre parcel.
*May 1986: Harris Property
This single one-acre parcel was approved at Town Meeting for $78,750.
*1987: Westgate Road Property
Town Meeting approved the purchase of 151.50 acres of land along Westgate Road in the Punkhorn
Parklands as buffer expansion for Wellfield Protection. This Land is under the custody and control
of the Water Department.
1987: PUNKHORN PARKLANDS: 1987 TM
Another 692 acres were approved, another major acquisition to the Parklands. [6 Key properties out of 80
total] The Town received State Self-Help Funds.
1987: BREWSTER PONDS WATER QUALITY MONITORING
Brewster has been conducting environmental monitoring of its ponds under the auspices of the
Department of Natural Resources for over 20 years (since 1987). Brewster’s ponds had been monitored
regularly by the Cape Cod Pond and Lake Stewardship (PALS) program. The PALS program had
monitored ponds and lakes across Cape Cod, including 29 ponds in Brewster. Brewster now runs their
own PALS/pond monitoring program.
1987: PLEASANT BAY ALLIANCE
In 1987 the Towns of Orleans, Chatham, Harwich, and Brewster submitted to the Commonwealth an
application to designate Pleasant Bay an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). The
Commonwealth’s ACEC designation led the four towns to develop a resource management plan for
Pleasant Bay and form the Pleasant Bay Alliance to coordinate management activities.
The Pleasant Bay Alliance is an organization of the Towns of Brewster, Chatham, Orleans, and Harwich.
Formed through an inter-municipal agreement, the Alliance is charged with implementing the Pleasant
Bay Resource Management Plan. The Plan encompasses the Pleasant Bay Area of Critical Environmental
Concern (ACEC) and Pleasant Bay watershed. The Alliance develops and distributes public policy
recommendations, technical studies, and public information/educational materials, all available on the
Alliance website, www.pleasantbay.org. Brewster’s Natural Resources Director and Town Planner are
appointed by the Select Board to represent the Town on the Alliance’s Steering Committee.
In 2018, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) issued the Pleasant Bay
Watershed Permit, the first permit of its kind to reduce nitrogen loads in a watershed shared by multiple
Towns. The permit gives each Alliance Town a mix of authorizations and incentives needed to implement
the nitrogen removal strategies outlined in the watershed plan. The twenty-year permit is managed in five-
year increments, with nitrogen reduction targets for each Town to meet along the way. The Alliance
develops annual progress reports required by MassDEP and the Cape Cod Commission to demonstrate
that nitrogen reduction requirements are on track. The process is flexible and allows Towns to adapt if
targeted strategies end up performing better or not as well as predicted.
To help implement the work called for under the watershed permit, the Alliance obtained $250,000 from
the Southeast New England Estuaries Project (SNEP), a grant program sponsored by US EPA and
Restore America’s Estuaries. Under the grant the Alliance and member Towns are: 1) exploring the
potential for expanded use of nitrogen removing septic systems; 2) monitoring the effectiveness of
shellfish aquaculture for nitrogen removal; 3) developing a nitrogen trading demonstration project that
will allow Towns to use financial transactions to compensate for nitrogen removal; and 4) updating the
ecological model that is used to track and assess nitrogen concentrations and removal requirements in the
Pleasant Bay system.
Working with the Towns to achieve the nitrogen removal targets outlined in the Targeted Watershed
Management Plan and watershed permit will continue to be a high priority for the Alliance
1988: DRUMMER BOY MUSEUM PROPERTY: 1-1988 TM
These 17+ acres of land were purchased for $950,000 with a Life Tenancy Agreement. The parcel was
transferred to the Town in 1991. Located along Route 6A, this land affords a rare view of Cape Cod Bay,
a scenic vista with conservation and recreation values. A large open parcel, the Drummer Boy Park is well
used by residents for recreation, with a walkway through woods and along the marsh. It is the site of the
Town Bandstand, donated by Steve Allard, a local builder, where the Brewster Town Band provides Sunday
concerts during the summertime. This is also the location of the “Playground By-the-Sea” sited to the rear
of the Drummer Boy Museum building.
Total Cost: $950,000
It is also the site for regular public events, such as the annual Brewster Conservation Day, Brewster in
Bloom, Fairs and Farmers Market (on adjacent Historical Society property). In 2021, the Town is
undertaking the process to update the Master Plan for the Park, and evaluating improved access to Wing
Island.
1988: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REVIEW BY-LAW: May 9, 1988 TM
The purpose of this by-law was to promote the health, safety, and wellbeing of the inhabitants of the Town
by prior review and mitigation of activities which will or may result in damage to the environment. The
natural resources of the Town included, but were not limited to, air pollution, water pollution, improper
sewage disposal; pesticide or herbicide pollution; unlawful dumping; excessive noise; impairment,
pollution, and eutrophication of ponds, streams, lakes, estuaries, shellfish beds, or other surface or
subsurface water resources; impairment or destruction of flood plains, forests, wildlife habitat or corridors,
or the habitat of any species listed as endangered, threatened, watch list, or of special concern by the
Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program; or the destruction or impairment of sites
of historic or archaeological significance, including Indian burial sites or middens. This By-Law was under
the purview of the Conservation Commission.
1988: HOPKINS PROPERTY – GIFT: 1988 TM
Town Meeting approved receipt of this gift totaling 30.11 acres of Saltmarsh on Namskaket Creek on the
Brewster/Orleans border.
1988: BAKERS POND PROPERTY: May 1988 TM
Town Meeting approved $1,008,700 to purchase 6 parcels totaling 28 in East Brewster along the
Brewster/Orleans border. The Town received $600,000 in grant monies from the state. This acquisition
preserved a large section of unfragmented forested uplands, as well as lands bordering Bakers Pond. It
represented a significant inter-Town cooperative venture, encompassing the western shoreline of Bakers
Pond on the Brewster-Orleans line. An adjacent parcel of 15 acres, approved for purchase by Orleans Town
Meeting, resulted in a joint acquisition that protects some 2,000 feet of this important pondshore/watershed
area. The Brewster parcels also abut Nickerson State Park
Total Cost: 1,008,700 State Grant Funds $600,000
1988: ATLANTIC WHITE CEDAR SWAMP CONSERVATION AREA: 1988 TM
Town Meeting approved purchase of 10.70 acres of White Cedar Swamp adjacent to Baker Pond
Conservation Are, southeast of Vespers Pond. The Town received State Grant Funds.
1988: BELMONT PARK PROPERTY: 5-1988 TM
This 42 acre, two parcel acquisition for $72,000 provided the Town with 39.50 acres of land for Affordable
Housing and 10 acres for Conservation. This site for a Housing Partnership Program in 1990 provided 20
homes, forming Belmont Park, a cluster subdivision surrounded by protected open space.
Total Cost: $72,000
1988: PUNKHORN PARKLANDS II PROPERTY: 5-1988 TM
Four more parcels, totaling 35 acres for $245,000, helped fill in the Punkhorn Parklands, which now totaled
over 900 acres of unfragmented forested uplands with two Great Ponds, and numerous wetlands, including
quaking bogs.
Total Cost: $245,000
1988: LYNCH CONSERVATION AREA –GIFT: 1988 TM
Town Meeting approved receipt of this gift of 7 acres in southwest Brewster along the Harwich line.
1988: COVE ROAD WELLHEAD PROTECTION AREA: 1988
Town Meeting approved purchase of 27.10 acre. These lands provided for an expansion of the buffer area
for wells #1 and #2.
1988: GOLF/MURPHY PROPERTY: 5-1988 TM
This acquisition added one parcel of 5.44 acres for $48,000 to the Golf Course lands.
Total Cost: $48,000
1988: FREEMANS WAY WATER PROPERTY: 5-1988
May 1988 Town Meeting approved eight more parcels, totaling 21 acres, for $95,000 provided increased
Wellfield Protection in SE Brewster, near Wells #1 and #2.
Total Cost: $95,000
1989: ARCHAEOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY OVERLAY BYLAW: 11-1989 TM
Based on geographic delineations, this regulation triggers archaeological review for applications which are
reviewed under the Wetlands Protection By-Law and the Environmental Impact Review By-Law This
overlay district indicates potential archaeologically sensitive sites as a factor to be considered prior to the
issuance of a building permit. The creation of this Overlay map generated increased public interest in
preserving undisturbed sites, and especially to enable obtaining invaluable and irreplaceable information
on our Town’s pre-history prior to construction.
1989: C & F DEVELOPMENT CONSERVATION AREA
This 0.75 acre parcel, located on Elbow Pond, protects important rare species habitat.
1990’s
1990: THE CAPE COD COMMISSION
On March 27, 1990 the Cape Cod Commission was established and charged with, among other things, to
prepare and oversee the implementation of a regional land use policy plan. Their assistance, expertise and
technical guidance over the last fifteen years have enabled the Town to complete a number of Town
planning strategies, upgrade zoning regulations, and accomplish numerous projects, which might otherwise
have faltered due to lack of support, expertise or funds.
1990: PRESERVATION AWARD FROM MA HISTORICAL COMMISSION
In March of 1990, the Brewster Conservation Commission received the Historic Preservation Award given
out by the MA Historical Commission. The nomination was based on the Conservation Commission’s
recognition of the importance of archaeological preservation, with the Town’s 1989 passage of the
Archaeological Sensitivity Overlay Map.
1990: FREEMANS WAY
This 20 acre site was accepted/approved for use as a recreation area.
1990: PUNKHORN PARKLANDS – ARTICLES II AND IV.
Approval of exchange of permanent management control from the Board of Selectmen to Conservation
Commission control – 141.02 acres.
At the same time The Freemans Way Conservation Lands – 20 acres – were turned over to the Water
Department and Recreation Commission. There are currently baseball and soccer fields on this parcel,
overseen by the Recreation Department.
1991: THE REGIONAL POLICY PLAN FOR BARNSTABLE COUNTY
In 1991 the Cape Cod Commission issued the Regional Policy Plan to help Local Planning Committees,
other Town boards and commissions identify important goals and policies as related to their specific Town.
The Commission provides assistance, technical expertise, as well as helping with funding, to develop
guidelines for the development of Local Comprehensive Plans. (LCP) 28
THE LOCAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE
The Town of Brewster was selected as a “pilot Town” by the Cape Cod Commission to develop a Local
Comprehensive Plan under Section 9 of the Cape Cod Commission Act. The Plan would be an expression
of the Town’s vision of its future and a guide to making the many public and private decisions that would
determine this future and a source of basic information about existing and expected local conditions.
1990: THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN APPOINTED A LOCAL COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING
COMMITTEE
Members 1990-2000:
Planning Board: Steven W. Eldredge -Chairman, Richard E. Houst, William C. Henchy, James K. Matel,
Marjorie W. Pierce, Kenneth Bates, Patricia Busch, Timothy Donovan, John P. McMullen, Robert A.
McLellan, John B. Morris, Joseph A. Shilansky, Jr.
Water Commission: William Porter, Benjamin Tillson
Conservation Commission: Alyce L. Favreau, Donald Schall, Tina Balog-Conservation Administrator
Recreation Commission: Rolland Bassett, Keith Arnold
Board of Health: Doris Franzago, Elizabeth Collins
Board of Selectmen: Jillian Douglass-Administrative Assistant
Natural Resources: Bob Mant
Historic District Commission: Roy Robinson
Archaeology: Fred Dunford-Staff Archaeologist, Cape Cod Museum of Natural History.
This plan had been in process for a number of years and was expected to be completed in the by spring of
2008. Most sections were in revised draft form.
1991: LOCAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TOWN-WIDE SURVEY
In 1991, as a part of developing the Local Comprehensive
Plan (LCP), the Committee formulated a survey which was distributed to all residents. Grant funding was
received from the Cape Cod Commission for administrative costs and was used to fund the mailing of the
survey, which was sent to 4,000 households. The survey response was very high, 46%. The results were
compiled by Jillian Douglass and graphed by Susan Strumski.
94% of respondents agreed that the preservation of Brewster's present rural character was very important.
1. "Securing land for conservation uses" was ranked #1.
2. The next most important project was "maintenance of the local library." In 1997 there was a major
expansion and up-date of the Brewster Ladies Library.
3. Additional sidewalks were rated as the next most important project.
The top three recreational needs were:
1. Walking trails - The land is there but trails still need to be further delineated and maintained.
2. Land for freshwater pond swimming beaches. - Land still needs to be acquired or managed to provide
such recreational facilities.
3. Concert facilities - A Bandstand has been built at the Drummer Boy Park on Route 6A.
28 Cape Cod Commission, Regional Policy Plan for Barnstable County, (Barnstable, 1991).
Throughout the survey, the same responses appeared:
Keep Brewster rural.
Retain the quiet beauty and charm.
Retain the historic character.
Retain the small Town quality.29
1991: OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
A new Open Space Committee was formed in 1991 and met actively for about 4 years.
After 1995, work was continued only by the Conservation Commission Administrator until the Open Space
Committee was reconstituted in 1998.
1991: HARWICH/BREWSTER WELLHEAD PROTECTION PROJECT
The Water Resources Office of the Cape Cod Commission completed this project which better defined re -
charge areas for our present and future public wells and analyzed the issues of nitrogen loading and other
potential contamination sources to our water supply. Recommendations were made to regulate
underground fuel storage tanks and amend the Water Resource District By-law refining the Zone 2 recharge
area boundaries.30
1991: FRIENDS OF NICKERSON, INC.
Created in 1991, this group was organized to support Nickerson State Park by promoting activities and to
provide not only a conduit for donations, but to actively undertake fund raising for the park.
1992: FRIENDS OF CROSBY MANSION
Albert Crosby constructed the Colonial Revival-style mansion in 1888 to 1889. Prior to DEM purchase in
1986, Camp Seascapes used the Crosby Estate including the Crosby Mansion, several outbuildings, tennis
courts and pool.
The Crosby Mansion volunteer group was organized in 1992 by people with a strong interest in the
Mansion. These volunteers spent thousands of hours of time, energy and provided materials to almost
totally stabilize and restore the mansion and its grounds to the magnificence they enjoyed at the turn of the
century.
Being within the Old King’s Highway Regional Historic District, the Mansion is listed on the Massachusetts
Historic Commission’s (MHC) State Register. In addition, an initial evaluation by the MHC suggests that
the Crosby Mansion may be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places based on its degree of
significance at the local level.
The continuing rehabilitation and long-term use/lease of the mansion is the subject of ongoing discussion
between the Town of Brewster, DEM and the state legislature. At this time, the Town had a temporary
five-year lease from DEM, while negotiations continued for a longer lease.
1992: THE CAPE REPERTORY THEATRE
DEM and the Cape Repertory Theatre entered into a partnership related to the use of structures that were
formerly associated with the Crosby Estate and an amphitheater formerly used by Camp Monomoy. The
building that the Cape Repertory Group planned to restore and use for production was destroyed by fire in
1991. However, the group decided to rebuild the structure following historical guidelines. In 1991, the
29 Local Comprehensive Plan Committee, Town-wide Survey, (Brewster, 1991).
30 Cape Cod Commission, Harwich/Brewster Wellhead Protection Project, (Barnstable, 1991).
state legislature approved a 25-year lease for the use of the buildings and grounds of the old livery stable
site. 31
1992: THE ROUTE 6A CORRIDOR STUDY
This study was conducted to identify potential threats from future developments upon the Town’s resources,
and to assess the future ability of the Town’s road network to serve as a safe and efficient transportation
system
The Route 6A Corridor Study Committee was composed of members: Steven W. Eldredge - Chairman,
Richard E. Houst-Vice Chairman, Doris C. Alm, Ken Bates, Jan Francis-HDC, Timothy P. Donovan, Alyce
L. Favreau-Citizen-at-Large, Doris Franzago-Board of Health, Robert A. McLellan, John B. Morris,
Marjorie W. Pierce, Robert Thomas, -Water Commissioner, Donald G. Schall-Conservation, John Mitchell-
Selectmen Representative.
Ex-Officio Members - Non-Voting Members-Patricia Hughes -Cape Cod Commission, William Henchy,
David Thyng-Building Commissioner, James Ehrhart-Police Chief, Allan Tkaczk-DPW Superintendent,
Jane Potter - Chamber of Commerce, Doug Hayner-Board of Trade, Jillian Douglass-Selectmen's Alternate.
Tams Consultants in association with Horsley Witten Hegemann, Inc. and Candace Jenkins were hired to
perform the analysis. In June of 1992 they submitted the finished Corridor Study.
The study results indicated that:
1. A considerable amount of development was still possible in Brewster which, if realized, would
result in unacceptably low levels of service along Route 6A as well as several other road corridors, resulting
in increased congestion and safety hazards.
2. Poorly designed development, which was not compatible with the character of the corridors
threatened valuable historic, cultural and scenic resources.
3. If the Town’s numerous road corridors, including Route 6A, were to continue to serve as viable
transportation routes, as well as historic and cultural assets to th e Town of Brewster, comprehensive
performance and design standards for development were necessary. 32
The Corridor Overlay District Protection By-law was proposed to protect public health, safety and welfare
through the preservation of the Town’s transportation corridors, and protection of its historic and cultural
assets, for the residents and visitors of the Town of Brewster. The By-law was approved at Fall Town
Meeting in 1993 adopting new standards for transportation, access, parking, landscaping and appearance
within the Corridor Overlay District 33, which included all land identified on the Town of Brewster Zoning
District Map.34
1988-1993: DIAGNOSTIC/FEASIBILITY STUDY OF SHEEP POND, BREWSTER
This study was initiated under the Massachusetts Chapter 628 Clean Lake and Great Ponds Program. IEP
was contracted to conduct the study in March 1988.
Sheep Pond is a freshwater kettle pond with a surface area of 56.6 ha (140 acres) lying between State Routes
124 and 137 in the Town of Brewster. The pond is composed of two major basins with maximum depths
of 18 meters (60 feet) at the north end and 15 meters (50 feet) at the south end. The Division of Water
Pollution Control classified Sheep Pond as “oligotrophic” based on the baseline surveys in 1980 and 1986.
31 DEM, GOALS Management Plan, Nickerson State Park, (Boston, 1993).
32 TAMS Consultants, The Route 6A Corridor Study, (1992).
33 Brewster, The Corridor Overlay Protection By -Law, (Town of Brewster, 1993).
34 Town of Brewster Zoning Districts Map
Although the pond was an excellent recreational resource with no pronounced symptoms of cultural
eutrophication, shoreline residents and Townspeople expressed the need for measures to insure that the
water quality of the pond would be preserved. Members of the Sheep Pond Beach Association were
instrumental in alerting Townspeople to the desirability and cost-effectiveness of implementing measures
to protect the pond then, rather than waiting until a problem developed and attempting restoration. This
farsighted perspective and concern for the pond prompted the study.
The focus of the feasibility study was the preservation of the water quality that existed in Sheep Pond in
1988. Major sources of nutrient inputs to Sheep Pond that are manageable were septic systems, shoreline
lawns, and stormwater drainage. Preventing the nutrient load from these sources from increasing or
reducing them would protect the Sheep Pond ecosystem from degradation of water quality.
The feasibility study results and recommendations are discussed in more detail in Section 4 G.
Environmental Problems.
1993-1999: ROLAND C. NICKERSON STATE PARK
GOALS Management Plan
In order to ensure that MA state forests and park systems provide the best open space, natural resources
conservation, and recreational opportunities for MA residents and visitors, DEM established a program
known as GOALS: Guidelines for Operations and Land Stewardship. The plan serves as a guide for
management of the renewable and irreplaceable resources in DEM’s trust.
Public input and volunteer assistance, especially from the NSP Advisory Committee and the Friends of
Nickerson, was an irreplaceable component of the planning process. A number of public meetings were
held; the plan was improved by the local knowledge of local citizens and their concern for NSP. An
important part of the management plan is its ability to enhance the coordination between DEM and the
Cape Cod Commission and the Town of Brewster in several ways: The lease of structures on the Bay
Property to the Cape Cod Repertory Theatre supports appropriate economic development by promoting
cultural-tourist related activities. DEM is promoting sensible solid waste management with a recycling
program that is available to park visitors.
The Cape Cod Rail Trail was a major step toward promoting alternative types of transportation. It serves
as a primary corridor, allowing municipalities to bring bicyclists, horseback riders and walkers to interesting
destinations with connector trails.
The undeveloped state park land serves as a filter for precipitation, recharging the aquifer with large
quantities of clean water, directly contributing to Town water supplies. DEM’s interpretive programs
inform the public about the importance of natural and cultural resources, and thus contribute to the
protection of wetlands and wildlife. NSP is a popular recreation spot, reducing pressure on other heavily
used areas. Local businesses also amply benefit from purchases made by campers and day visitors.
Campers often choose a park because it is near cultural activities, places of historical interest, wildlife
sanctuaries, the seashore, good summer theatres, art galleries, museums and exceptional restaurants.
Brewster offers all of these things.
The park is an important block of open space that the Town or Cape Cod Commission may utilize as a
foundation for greenway corridor planning.35
1993: THAD ELLIS ROAD PROPERTY: State Purchase
This is a 1.5 acre wetland parcel on Thad Ellis Road, purchased in 1993 by the MA Division of Fish &
Wildlife for permanent protection.
35 DEM, GOALS Management Plan Nickerson State Park, (Boston, 1993).
1993: BREWSTER STATE FOREST; State Purchase
The Brewster State Forest, 26 forested acres, located just west of the Sheep Pond Woodlands
Conservation Area. The Forest is bisected by the Cape Cod Rail Trail and extends south to Sheep Pond.
1993: MONOMOY LENS GROUNDWATER PROTECTION PROJECT
This Cape Cod Commission study sought to refine the Commission’s knowledge of current groundwater
conditions within the Monomoy Lens. The data was used to develop potential wellhead protection programs
and regulations.36
1993: SOIL SURVEY OF BARNSTABLE COUNTRY, MASSACHUSETTS
This soil survey is a publication of the National Cooperative Soil Survey, a joint effort of the United States
Department of Agriculture and other federal agencies, state agencies including the Agricultural Experiment
stations, and local agencies. The federal National Conservation Soil Service (NRCS) has leadership for the
federal part of the National Cooperative Soil Survey. Major field work was completed in 1983. Soil names
and descriptions were approved in 1984.
The Survey was made cooperatively by the Soil Conservation Service and the Massachusetts Agricultural
Experiment Station. It is part of the technical Assistance furnished to the Cape Cod Conservation District. In
addition, the Survey clearly elucidates the importance of the geologic history of Cape Cod, in the creation
of the landforms, the glacial deposits, the soils that have shaped the history and development of this area.
The geology of Cape Cod remains dynamic as the postglacial landforms continue to evolve. 37
The Soil Survey is an inventory and evaluation of the soils in the survey areas. It can be used to adjust land
uses to the limitations and potentials of natural resources and the environment. Also, it can be used to avoid
soil-related failures in land uses. Information can be used to plan the use and management of soils for crops
and pasture; as woodland; as sites for buildings; sanitary facilities, highways and other transportation
systems, and park and other recreational facilities; and for wildlife habitat. It can be used to identify the
potentials and limitations of each soil for specific land uses and to help prevent construction failures caused
by unfavorable soil properties.
Planners and others using Soil Survey information can evaluate the effect of specific land uses on
productivity and the environment in all or part of the survey area. The survey can help planners to maintain
or create a land use pattern in harmony with the natural soil. 38
The Survey, the soil names and descriptions were accepted at Town Meeting in December 1984 and further
amendments to the Survey were accepted at Town Meetings in 1988, 1989, 1990 and 2001.
Maps and interpretative data indicating the limitations of individual soils for different land uses such as
on-site sewage disposal, homesites, and woodlands, are available for review through the NRCS or
through the Conservation Commission office in Brewster Town Hall.
1993: ARCHAEOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY MAP
Based on the 1989 Bylaw, Brewster produced an Archaeological Sensitivity Map, with revision/updates
in 1996 and 1998, by the Cape Cod Commission (Appendix C). This map shows areas of:
PRIMARY SENSITIVITY (1,000-Foot Protective Buffer Zone): This generally includes all areas
within 1,000 of marine ecosystems, particularly those areas within close proximity to freshwater.
36 Cape Cod Commission, Monomoy Lens Groundwater Protection Project, (Barnstable, 1993).
37 Soil Survey of Barnstable County, Massachusetts (Barnstable, 1993)
38 Ibid.
These areas have a high probability of containing prehistoric archaeological sites. The four most
important areas for management consideration based upon available data are: Namskaket Creek
and marsh, the Cape Cod Bay shoreline, Stony Brook Valley, and the major ponds of the Herring
River Drainage System.
SECONDARY SENSITIVITY (500-Foot Protective Buffer Zone): This generally includes all
areas within 500 feet of a water body greater than 3 acres in size that are not a part of the Herring
River or Stony Brook drainage systems. These areas are likely to contain prehistoric
archaeological sites, particularly if they intersect areas of primary sensitivity.
TERTIARY SENSITIVITY: This generally includes all areas within a protective zone that skirts
wetlands of any size and water bodies less than three acres in size. Developments that may
disrupt the natural character or inhibit public safety are prohibited in this protective zone. The
delineation of the protection zone is defined in the Town of Brewster’s Wetlands Conservancy
District Bylaw and are subject to the regulations that constitute the Wetlands Protection act,
MGL.c.131, --40, as amended. Archaeological sites may exist within these environments.
1994: HOUSING AUTHORITY PHASE II: 11-1994 TM
One parcel consisting of eight acres was purchased for $104,500 to provide affordable Senior Housing. 24
units were built – Frederick Court. This building has 3 acres of open space around it, preserved for gardening
and recreation the seniors in residence
1994: WILDLIFE HABITAT CORRIDOR STUDY
Town meeting approved monies for an aerial mapping project to produce an overlay map of wildlife
corridors and habitats. This study was tabled until the Conservation Commission was ready to proceed with
the project.
Current Data on Corridors for Wildlife Migration
Riparian areas (i.e., rivers, streams and adjacent lands) are important habitats for wildlife, and function as
corridors for wildlife migration. This includes many of what are ordinarily thought of as "upland" species
as well as wetland species. For example, many upland animals need access to rivers and streams for
hunting and drinking, particularly in the winter when other water sources may be frozen over. The
junction between rivers, streams and adjacent riparian land is especially high in ecological diversity and
biological productivity because gravity is constantly moving energy and matter along with the current and
because so many animals spend their lives both in water and on land. The high value of riparian areas as
wildlife habitat is also due to the abundance of water combined with the convergence of many species
along the edges and ecological transition zones between aquatic/wetland, aquatic/upland, wetland/upland
and river channel/backwaters habitats (Cohen, 1997).
In Brewster, examples of where wildlife can migrate include:
• Along the Cape Cod Bike Path.
• Protected land along Quivett Creek.
• Protected land from Spruce Hill Conservation Area at Cape Cod Bay through Nickerson State
Park.
• Protected land from Calf Field Pond to Punkhorn Parklands
1994: GROUNDWATER PROTECTION DISTRICT
The Water Resource District Zoning By-law was brought into line with the newly enacted MA State
Groundwater Protection District guidelines. The new Brewster Groundwater Overlay Protection District
provides increased protection for public drinking water supplies. These regulations come under the
authority of the Water Quality Review Committee. 39
39 Water Quality Review Committee, Groundwater Protection District, Zoning ByLaw, (Brewster, 1994).
1995: MELCHER PROPERTY: November 1995 TM
These two parcels, amounting to 10.8 acres for $45.000, were acquired to add to the Captains Golf Course.
Total Cost: $45,000
1996: THE MONOMOY LENS CAPACITY STUDY
The Cape Cod Commission prepared the Monomoy Capacity Study, with assistance from The Monomoy
Capacity Study Work Group and Whiteman and Taitor. The Study focused on the Towns at the “elbow”
of Cape Cod:
Brewster, Chatham, Dennis, Harwich and Orleans. The purpose of the study was to analyze how much
growth these Towns can accommodate while still protecting their natural resources, municipal facilities and
community character. The study projected growth in housing units and population for four different future
scenarios including the years 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2015 assuming a 50% shift from seasonal to year-round
housing units. Growth was projected based on existing land use patterns, zoning regulations and historic
growth rates. The study examined four major areas of impact: Water Resources, Transportation, Natural
Resources and Open Space, and Fiscal Impacts. The most serious capacity constraints faced by the Towns
relate to transportation and water supply, but there are other concerns as well. The most severe impacts
occur if there is a substantial shift from seasonal to year-round use of residential dwellings.
Natural Resources
The Natural Resources component of the 1996 Monomoy Capacity study provided an inventory of valuable
natural resources in the region such as bogs, marshes, ponds, vernal pools, barrier beaches, fish runs, rare
species habitat, and unfragmented forests. The report identifies potential threats to those resources,
evaluates existing protections, and analyzes both the actual and perceived levels of service for open space
in each of the Towns. The report notes that many key natural resources in the region are not within
permanently protected open space areas and thus are vulnerable to damage from inappropriate development.
It finds that the greatest threat to the natural resources of the area is the reduction, fragmentation and
elimination of woodland habitat. There is also a marked difference between the amount of perceived open
space (that is, currently undeveloped land) and protected open space in the Monomoy Towns. Without
continued and increased efforts of open space acquisition, all of the Towns will experience a decline in the
amount of available open space and community character will change. It is possible for the Towns to
maintain their current ratio of protected open space per capita provided that the existing seasonal to year -
round population mix is maintained and land.
Conclusions
In the past, many communities have assumed that growth capacity is equal to the amount of development
allowed under zoning. The Monomoy Capacity Study indicates that full build out under current zoning
regulations could seriously tax both the natural resources and municipal infrastructure of these Towns. The
single most striking finding of the study is that conversion of seasonal residences to year -round use could
have enormous impacts on transportation, water quality and municipal finances.
The study recommended a number of management strategies to deal with the capacity constraints identified
in the analysis, including:
Identification and protection of potential well sites
Use of enhanced wastewater treatment technologies
Changes in zoning regulations
Use of transit and travel demand management systems
Purchase of open space to reduce travel demand, protect water quality, and preserve valuable
habitat.
The data, analysis and recommendations specific to the Town of Brewster have been incorporated into the
pertinent sections of this Open Space Plan. 40
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE AWARDS
Each year, the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions, Inc., recognizes a small number
of people who have worked long and hard, often without thanks or recognition, to protect the Massachusetts
environment. Four members of the Brewster Conservation Commission have been recipients of this
prestigious award: Robert Finch in 1989, William C. Henchy in 1991, Paul Grueninger in 1992 and
Elizabeth G. Taylor in 1996. The Town should be proud of their dedication to protection of the
environment.
1997: GOLF COURSE EXPANSION II PROPERTY: September 1997 TM
Seventeen parcels, totaling 126.8 acres were approved in the amount of $1,655,598 to provide for an
additional to the Captains Golf Course.
Total Cost: $1,655,598
1997: FREEMANS WAY BARROWS PROPERTY: November 1997 TM
Three more parcels, totaling 29 acres for $450,000, provided further protection within the eastern
Wellfields’ Zone II.
Total Cost: $450,000
1998: THE CAPE COD LAND BANK
In January of 1998, Cape Cod voters were asked to approve a real estate transfer tax, as a method to fund a
Land Bank. Many, who supported the idea of a Land Bank, were not happy with this taxation method.
Realtors were prominent members of the opposition to this tax. Over $100,000 was raised by the Realtors
lobby against the tax. Their campaign portrayed the proposal as one that would hurt senior citizens trying
to sell their property. The tax was defeated 55% to 45%.
Undaunted by the loss, Land Bank supporters rallied and worked to revise the funding mechanism. A new
plan proposed a 3% surcharge on real estate taxes. Each Cape Town was allowed to vote on raising their
property taxes. The State sweetened the deal by offering to provide a certain level of matching funds.
Towns that failed to pass the Land Bank bill would not be eligible to apply for these funds.
On November 3, 1998, on the ballot in every Cape Cod Town, Question 5 read as follows:
“Shall an act passed by the General Court in the year 1998 entitled ‘an Act Relative to the Establishment
of the Cape Cod Open Space Land Acquisition Program’, to acquire open space and conservation land,
provide bicycling and walking trails, enhance opportunities for recreation, and protect public drinking
water supplies, and to be funded by an additional excise on real property, but not affecting existing
abatements and exemptions, and expiring on January 1, 2020, be accepted?”
On November 4, 1998, ALL fifteen Towns on Cape Cod had approved the Land Bank. Each Town would
share in a portion of a $15 million State matching fund. 50% of the amount raised by any Town each year
would be matched by the State. This was a unique program established only for land preservation and only
on Cape Cod.
All funds, plus interest therein, would accumulate in an account managed by the Town treasurer, only to be
expended on land purchases in that Town, and only when authorized by a majority Town Meeting vote.
The Town Open Space Committee would recommend land purchases to the Town Meeting, but Town
40 Cape Cod Commission, The Monomoy Capacity Study, (Barnstable, 1996).
Meeting would make the final decisions. Towns could also use some or all of their annual revenues to issue
bonds for large purchases.
This money could be used for:
Wellfields and Watershed Protection, Agricultural or Forest Land
Ocean and Pond Frontage, Beaches and Dunes
Land to Protect or Restore Scenic Vistas in Developed Areas
Land for Natural or Wildlife Preserves
Land for Recreational Uses – including golf courses
Land and Easements for Trails
The Land Bank Bill established a 3% surcharge on the real estate tax levy. Based on 1998 real estate taxes,
this meant at least $437,803+ per year for Brewster. With the addition of 50% State matching funds of
$218,901+, this provided Brewster with an estimated $656,704, per year, to be used solely for land
acquisition and protection. Additional funds were also available through various grant applications from
state, local and private agencies.
1998: THE BREWSTER PATHWAYS COMMITTEE
The Cape Cod Pathways Project, sponsored by Barnstable County, encourages landowners to participate
in the creation of a linked system of walking trails throughout the Cape. This network relies on land
donations, easements, licenses, and purchases. Its implementation requires the use of access easements
over some privately owned parcels and the acquisition of other parcels for their conservation values as
well as access to the Trail.
Cape Cod Pathways chose Brewster as one of the first Towns in the Pathway Project because of its early
interest, its strong history of open space acquisition and planning, and the large tracts of existing
conservation land in Town. Utilizing existing trails, ancient ways, cartpaths, Town roads, and new trails,
this pathway will eventually connect to walking trails in the Towns of Dennis, Orleans and Harwich.
Brewster Pathways Committee members from 1998-2007 were: Christopher Williams, Chairman, Gary
Christen, Karen Dame, Elizabeth Finch, Donald Near, Bruce MacGregor, Eric Levy, Julie Trzcinski, with
Mark Robinson (Director, Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts) sitting in as a "guide par excellence",
helping the Committee work its way through the Pathway creation process.
The Pathways Committee has sought short and long-term trail routes, purchase of parcels and negotiation
of easements over properties to complete a pathway through Brewster.
Pathways studies completed in 1998 include:
1. An East-West Corridor Study completed by the Pathways Committee and Mark Robinson.
2. A North-South Trail Feasibility Study for linking Nickerson State Park to Hawksnest State Park in
Harwich and the Cape Cod Rail Trail, which was completed by Tana Watt and Kathy Sferra of the Cape
Cod Commission.
Two portions of this Pathways network were formally dedicated in 1998:
1. Pathway connection through Nickerson State Park
2. Pathway connection through the Punkhorn Parklands
Members of this Committee contributed needed information, recommendations for land purchases and
guidance as the 2007 Open Space & Recreation Plan was formulated. 41
41 Cape Cod Pathways Committee, The Cape Cod Pathways Punkhorn Map, (Barnstable, 1999).
As part of the Cape Cod Pathways Program, Brewster Pathways has a goal of a walking path from Dennis
to Orleans, with connections to Harwich and "fingers" extending into various parts of Town. Pathways
through Nickerson State Park and on to Orleans have been dedicated, as well as a pathway connection
routed through the Punkhorn Parklands. This trail is now complete except for a few connecting sections in
the middle of Brewster. The Committee has been negotiating with private property owners/associations
but has been unable to plot the trail along property edges to connect open space parcels. A seven-mile
section from the Dennis Town line to Route 137 has been plotted with GPS and has been marked with
trail signs.
The Town has been supportive of the effort of the Cape Cod Commission’s Cape Cod Pathways project to
link trails to form a Cape-wide network and the Town has completed most of a contiguous trans-Town
path as part of the regional Pathways system. The Town's Cape Cod Pathways Committee had worked
consistently over the last two decades to implement the Brewster Pathways Plan and Brewster
Department of Natural Resources has taken over the planning and maintenance of this important through
trail. Any privately owned parcels that are necessary to cross as part of the Cape Cod Pathways Plan
should continue to be considered a high land protection priority for their recreational value, as well as
their conservation value.
1998: ELLIS PROPERTY –HAWK’S NEST: A Brewster Pathways Connection: November 1998 TM
Barnstable County had grant monies available, $50,000 per Town, for land acquisition for trails. The
Brewster Committee obtained a $100,000 grant, since the proposed purchase connected two Town
pathways; land on the eastern edge of Dennis, to land on the western edge of Brewster.
The Town of Brewster then approved a match of $50,000 at Town Meeting. The acquired parcels, totally
27 acres, contained historic value and connected with a 400-acre conservation tract in Dennis. The
Committee also supported the successful application for a grant awarded to the Town of Orleans for their
trail connection to the eastern edge of Brewster.
Total Cost $150,000
1998: LONG POND WATER ASSESSMENT STUDY
Long Pond, the largest great pond on Cape Cod, (over 740 acres), had begun to experience water quality
problems that threatened the environmental health and enjoyment of the pond by Town residents. The
Water Resources office of the Cape Cod Commission: Eduard M. Eichner, Van Morrill, Ben Smith and
Kenneth Livingston with the assistance of Town staff: Tina Balog, Bob Mant, Michael Schultz and pond
volunteer Carroll Johnson.
The Long Pond Watershed Association, founded in 1994 by Peter Herrmann, provided volunteer time to
help the Town of Brewster, Town of Harwich and the Cape Cod Commission obtain a $10,000 state DEM
grant, as well as funds for Brewster and Harwich. After sa mple collection, analysis of water quality and
phosphorus loading assessment, Cape Cod Commission staff concluded that low oxygen conditions and
excessive phosphorus loads from septic systems and road run-off were major contributors to the problems.
A Comprehensive Resource Plan was determined to be the next step. Baseline water testing is continuing.
42
1999: CAPE COD WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PROJECT
With funding from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), an international wildlife
organization located in Yarmouth, MA, the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts initiated the Cape
42 Cape Cod Commission, Long Pond Water Quality, (Barnstable, 1998).
Cod Wildlife Conservation Project in 1997. Additional funding was provided by Sweetwater Trust, Boston,
MA.
Project members include the Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP), staff and field personnel: Henry Barbour,
Director Science and Stewardship, The Nature Conservancy – MA Field Offices (SAP); David Crary, Jr.,
Fire Management Officer, Cape Cod National Seashore; Russell DeConti, Center for Coastal Studies
(SAP), Mario DiGregorio, Principal, Sabatia Inc., Environmental Consulting (SAP); Robert Finch,
Author/Naturalist; Marea Gabriel, Habitat Protection Specialist, MA Natural Heritage and Endangered
Species Program (SAP) Scott Jackson, Extension Educator, UMASS Amherst (SAP); Andrea Jones,
Grasslands Conservation Coordinator, MA Audubon Society (SAP); Henry Lind, Town of Eastham
Department of Natural Resources (SAP); Mark Mello, Executive Director, Lloyd Center for the
Environmental Studies, (SAP); Dennis Murley, Naturalist, MA Audubon Society, Wellfleet Bay Wildlife
Sanctuary; Dr. Norton Nickerson, Professor Emeritus, Tufts University (SAP); Susan Nickerson, Executive
Director, Association for the Preservation of Cape Cod (SAP); Mark Patton, Town of Falmouth Department
of Natural Resources; Wayne Peterson, MA Audubon Society (SAP); Robert Prescott, Executive Director,
MA Audubon Society, Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (SAP); Mark Rasmussen, Forester, MA Div.
Fisheries and Wildlife; John Scanlon, Extension Specialist, UMASS Amherst; Donald Schall, Wetlands
Biologist, ENSR, Inc.(SAP); Kathy Sferra, Environmental Planner, Cape Cod Commission (SAP); Heather
McElroy, Planner, Cape Cod Commission; Jackie Sones, Naturalist, MA Audubon Society, Wellfleet Bay
Wildlife Sanctuary (SAP); Peter Trull, Naturalist, Center for Coastal Studies (SAP); Bob Wilber,
Association Director of Land Acquisitions, The Nature Conservancy –MA Field Offices
The central goal of the Project was to preserve and enhance biodiversity on Cape Cod by protecting the
most significant wildlife habitats against detrimental influences. The strongest and most persistent threat
is general human population pressure, especially land development, which is rapidly consuming the
remaining natural wildlife habitat in the region, forcing all species into smaller, more fragmented semi-
rural and suburban spaces.
The Project significantly consolidated the existing information regarding the understanding and location of
significant wildlife habitat and associated species on Cape Cod. In addition, it provided an evolving
methodology for assessing relative wildlife habitat value and for protecting this habitat. As a resource, the
information gathered during the Project will be essential for wildlife planning activities conducted on Cape
Cod. The further development of this information during subsequent phases of the project will provide an
increasingly clear and strong basis for wildlife and plant habitat planning and land protection work in the
region. Specific data concerning Brewster is discussed in later sections of the 2007 OSRP. 43
1999: PRIORITY LAND ACQUISITION ASSESSMENT PROJECT
The need to protect undeveloped land for potential water supplies has been recognized through several Cape
Cod planning initiatives. With the need to identify specific parcels for future water supply, it became
apparent that a more detailed study was required.
The Priority Land Acquisition Assessment Project (PLAAP) evaluated land tracts for their water supply
development potential based on natural resources and land use constraints. Tracts were evaluated and rated
as poor, low, medium and high potential. Brewster had one of the greatest amount of medium and high
potential tracts, 8510 acres. The details of this report and recommendations are contained in Section 4:
Water Resources.44
43 Cape Cod Commission, Cape Cod Wildlife Conservation Project, (Barnstable, 1999).
44 ibid. The Priority Land Acquisition Assessment Project, (Barnstable, 1999).
1999: PRESERVING CAPE COD’S PAST FOR THE FUTURE: A Cultural Landscape Study 45
/The Brewster Reconnaissance Study
The passage of the Cape Cod Land Bank provided Cape Cod communities with a valuable opportunity to
protect important sites from future development. In the past however, identificati on of lands for
preservation had focused primarily on areas with ecological sensitivity or the presence of historical
structures. Under that traditional system of classification, a number of cultural/rural historic landscapes,
such as farmlands and maritime sites had received minimal protection, despite their crucial role in defining
the character of the region. As individual Towns examined their open space needs and considered their
land bank purchase options, an inventory and evaluation of local cultural landscape sites could identify
important potential preservation areas that might otherwise be overlooked. Without documentation and
protection, these sites are vulnerable to significant alteration and destruction from intense development
pressures.
The U.S. Department of the Interior (USDI) defines “cultural landscape” as:
“A geographic area, including both cultural and natural resources and the wildlife or domestic animals
therein, associated with an historic event, activity, or person, or exhibiting other cultural or aesthetic
values”.
and “rural historic landscape” as:
“A geographic area that historically has been used by people, or shaped or modified by human activity,
occupancy, or intervention, and that possess a significant concentration, linkage, or continuity of areas of
land use, vegetation, buildings and structures, roads and waterways, and natural features.”
The Cape Cod Commission’s Regional Policy Plan included the goal of “protecting and preserving the
important historic and cultural features of the Cape “(Regional Policy Plan, Goals and Policies 6.1). The
Commission initiated this cultural landscape study in response to a need for documentation of Cape Cod’s
culturally significant landscapes.
Lack of documentation of these areas has contributed to their vulnerability and destruction. Without any
formal record of the existence, location, and importance of a Town’s cultural landscapes, communities lack
the tools necessary for preservation and protection of such areas.
Martha Hevenor, Ambika Prokop, and Nicolle Robillard, students at the Department of Urban and
Environmental Policy of Tufts University performed the study. The study was presented to the Cape Cod
Commission Assembly of Delegates Meeting at a July 1999 m eeting. It provided a model format for
completing a cultural landscape inventory in any Cape Town. Sample evaluations were done for the Towns
of Bourne, Sandwich, and Falmouth.
The Commission expected to incorporate the results of this study together with other studies (such as the
Cape Cod Wildlife Conservation Project), the Priority Land Acquisition Assessment Project, and the Cape
Cod Pathways Project) to develop the Cape Cod Regional Open Space Plan. This plan would recommend
priority areas in the region for land preservation. By protecting both the Cape’s historic cultural landscapes
and natural resources, communities such as Brewster will be able to preserve an important part of their
heritage.
1998-2000: THE OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
This committee, appointed in 1998, included:
Steven Eldrege, Chairman-Board of Selectmen
Christine Durgin-Board of Assessors
Gary Christen-Conservation Commission Liaison/ Pathways Committee
45 Ibid. Preserving Cape Cod’s Past for the Future, (Barnstable, 1999).
Marjorie Pierce-Planning Board
William Porter-Water Commissioners
Dana Condit-Citizen At Large,
Jan Francis-Citizen At-Large
Julie Trzcinski-Brewster Conservation Trust
Elizabeth G. Taylor-Open Space Plan Up-Date Coordinator/Cape Cod
Commission Delegate/Planning Board Member.
1999 OPEN SPACE & RECREATION PLAN (OSRP)
The new OSRP Committee consisted of representatives of various Town boards and Departments as well
as members of the general public. These persons were:
Conservation Commission: John Falciano, Alyce Favreau, Keith Rupert, Peter Worthington, Elizabeth
Taylor, Jeffrey Dinger, William Henchy, Christopher Williams, Donald Schall, Paul Grueninger, Lo Smith
Conservation Commission Staff: -Tina Balog, Administrator, and Nancy Mitchell, Clerk
Citizen-At-Large: Fred Peace,
Planning Board: -Marjorie W. Pierce.
This newly formed Committee wrote a number of the sections used in the 1999 Update. A lot of the data
and comments from the 1985 OSRP were also made a part of this plan. Tina Balog, Conservation
Administrator and Committee member, Alyce Favreau contributed many hours of their own time and were
responsible for organizing the sections written by the Committee and putting together a good portion of the
data contained in the 1999 plan.
1999: TOWN WIDE SURVEY
This survey was done to follow up on the 1991 Survey and to fulfill a requirement for completion of the
1999 Open Space & Recreation Plan. The questions on the 1999 survey are almost exactly the same as the
1991 Survey, to allow for a meaningful comparison of the two surveys.
The Survey provides a profile of Brewster residents and allows insight into the Townspeople’s concerns
and thoughts on local issues.
Generally the 1999 Survey reflected the same views and concerns as the 1991 Survey, as follows:
Brewster’s principal assets remained the same: Quiet, historic rural nature, beauty and charm, preserved
open space/natural assets, small Town character and quality of Town services.
Respondents overwhelmingly felt that preservation of Brewster’s present rural character is important.
Results also indicated that limitations should be set on building permits for both residential and commercial
units and that commercial development along Route 6A should be limited. Traffic congestion was seen as
a major problem.
The top five critical issues in Town were seen as:
Preserving Quality of Drinking Water Supplies
Preventing/Curtailing Pollution of ponds
Acquiring Land for Conservation
Acquiring/Developing Land for Recreation
Traffic safety, Sidewalks & Bike Paths
Medical Services
The top recreational activities were:
Walking,
Hiking
Biking
Swimming
Boating/Use of Bay and Pond Beaches
Specific Survey Results are discussed in Section 6 of the 1999 OSRP.46
LAND BANK ACQUISITIONS:
1999: BRUCH PROPERTY: November 1999 TM
Two parcels, totaling 33.17 acres were approved for $600,000. State Self -Help Grant monies contributed
$324,000. These parcels, located off Long Pond Road (Route 137) were the first parcels bought, part of a
larger plan to create a large conservation area to be known as Sheep Pond Woodlands. Consisting of
unfragmented forested uplands, these parcels ran from Long Pond Road and to Sheep Pond.
Total Cost: $600,000 State Self-Help Grant: $324,000
2001: AHLSTROM PROPERTY: November 2001 TM
This single parcel, consisting of 3.3 acres, was purchased for $280,000 and the Town received $154,170 in
State Self-Help Grant monies. This purchase leveraged a gift of 2 acres, as well as 16 acres preserved by
additional conservation restrictions. Located between the Drummer Boy Town Park and Quivett Marsh,
north of Route 6A this acquisition preserved a critical wildlife corridor along the upland edge to Quivett
Marsh.
Total Cost: $280,000 State Self-Help Grant: $154,170
These parcels adjoin 34 acres of conservation lands, as well as 100’s of acres that make up Quivett Marsh
preserving a major wildlife habitat. Wildlife trails connect from the west at Crowe’s Pasture (a Town of
Dennis Conservation Area) through Quivett Marsh, the Ahlstrom Conservation Areas, through the
Drummer Boy Park and continue south into Stony Brook Valley and the Punkhorn Parklands.
“I have walked trails through that (Quivett) woodland toward the salt marshes many times in recent years.
It has been one of my favorite ‘field trips,’ and I am proud to see it preserved from further development.”
---John Hay, Brewster author and naturalist since 1946
2001/2003/2010: BIOMAPS OF BREWSTER
NHESP, with funding made available by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and
Environmental Affairs (EEA), developed a BioMap to identify the areas most in need of protection in
order to protect the native biodiversity of the Commonwealth. The BioMap focuses primarily on state-
listed rare species and exemplary natural communities but also includes the full breadth of the State's
biological diversity. The goal of the BioMap project, completed in 2001, was to identify and delineate the
most important areas for the long term viability of terrestrial, wetland, and estuarine elements of
biodiversity in Massachusetts. Similarly, the goal of the NHESP Living Waters project, completed in
2003, was to identify and delineate the rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds that are important for freshwater
biodiversity in the Commonwealth. These two conservation plans are based on documented observations
of rare species, natural communities, and exemplary habitats. BioMap and Living Waters were combined
and updated in BioMap2 in 2010.
BioMap2 delineated “Core Habitats” that identify the most critical sites for biodiversity conservation
across the state. Core Habitats represent habitat for the state’s most viable rare plant and animal
populations and include exemplary natural communities and aquatic habitats. Core Habitats represent a
wide diversity of rare species and natural communities, and these areas are also thought to contain
virtually all of the other described species in Massachusetts. Statewide, BioMap Core Habitats encompass
46 Open Space Committee, Townwide Survey, (Brewster, 1999).
1,380,000 acres of uplands and wetlands, and Living Waters identifies 429 Core Habitats in rivers,
streams, lakes, and ponds.
BioMap2 Core Habitat and Critical Natural Landscape areas cover approximately 50% of the Town of
Brewster, in two main areas. One large area Core Habitat encompasses Nickerson State Park and its
surrounds extending southeast to the Town boundary and northeast to include Namskaket Creek. The
second encompasses the Punkhorn Parklands area, the Mill Ponds, the Herring Run, and the entire Paine's
Creek area. BioMap2 Critical Natural Landscapes cover the transition zones between the Core Habitat
areas and the developed areas and are concentrated around ponds.
2002: ORENDA WILDLIFE TRUST PARCEL
Formed in 1986, Orenda has acquired over 300 acres that are preserved as sanctuaries on Cape Cod and in
western Massachusetts. Orenda also protects hundreds more acres by holding Conservation Restrictions
on some parcels or Charitable Trust agreements with other land trusts on their land.
In 2002, Orenda acquired a 27.26 acre parcel at 0 Long Pond Road, Map 85 Parcel 42. The Brewster
Conservation Trust holds a Conservation Restriction on this parcel (5-14-2008).
2002: SHEEP POND WOODLANDS - ROWLEY PROPERTY PHASE #1: May 2002 TM
This first phase purchase of the Glenn Rowley Property consisted of one 20.93 acre parcel for $1,255,800.
This addition to the Sheep Pond Woodlands created a second access to Sheep Pond, as well as unfragmented
forested uplands, vernal pools and heathland. The State provided Self-Help Grant funds $250,000 and the
Town also obtained Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant monies.
Total Cost: $1,255,800 State Self-Help Grant: $250,000
2002: WHITEGATE FARM PROPERTY: November 2002 TM
A two parcel purchase, consisting of 8 acres, provided increased wellhead protection for lands off Long
Pond Road (Route 137), as well as preventing access for subdivision development of other watershed lands.
This acquisition cost $350,000 and received State Self-help Grant funds in the amount of $195,264.
Total Cost: $350,000 State Self-Help Grant: $195,264
2003: NEVIN PROPERTY (JOLLY WHALER): November 2003 TM
This purchase of 2.22 acres for $945,000 allowed to Town to un-develop a site located within critical habitat
areas and which contributed massive amounts of stormwater pollution into the Stony Brook Herring Run.
The site originally contained the Jolly Whaler Motel and Restaurant which was removed prior to taking
title to the lands. The owners also gifted a one acre parcel abutting the Herring Run and adjacent freshwater
marsh. This purchase re-created lovely scenic views of the Herring Run and Marsh and provided much
needed protection for wildlife and plant habitats in this critical habitat area.
Total Cost: $945,000
The parcel on the south side of Route 6A had contained an 0ld Trailer Park and abutted a freshwater marsh
called “Dark Swamp”. The Northern parcel had been the Jolly Whaler Motel. The Town anticipated using
part of the northern parcel to re-route/contain road runoff that had been running directly into Paines
Creek/The Herring Run.
This purchase was bonded and this was paid off in the spring of 2021.
2004: SHEEP POND WOODLANDS -ROWLEY PROPERTY PHASE #2: 2004 TM
This second phase purchase of the Glenn Rowley Property consisted of one 25.37 acre parcel for $1,522,200
and received State Self-help Grant funds in the amount of $250,000. This purchase essentially completed
the Sheep Pond Woodlands Conservation Area, totaling over 80 acres of land.
Total Cost: $1,522,200
2004: KRAWITZ PROPERTY: November 2004 TM
This acquisition of two parcels consisting of 6.37 acres was purchased for $325,000. Located on Black
Duck Cartway in West Brewster these parcels abut the Punkhorn Parklands, and Walkers Pond, a nutrient
impacted pond. Walkers Pond is located at the end of the Stony Brook Herring Run and serves as a spawning
area for Alewives and Brown Trout. These parcels also support a Red Maple Swamp (possible a vernal
pool).
These parcels are listed as having High Priority for habitat protection-APCC Critical Habitat Atlas, as well
as Core Habitat & Critical Supporting Watershed listed in Massachusetts Living Waters.
This acquisition is within the Zone II of the West Brewster Well #4, with Well #5 planned for installation
on lands directly abutting these parcels. These parcels are also located within the Zone II of the Town of
Dennis, with 11 wells located directly west over the Dennis border
Total Cost: $$325,000
2005: BREWSTER AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION
By Town Meeting vote in the Brewster Agricultural Commission, established in 2005, has seven
members and an alternate. To identify and serve the agricultural interests of Brewster, the following
definitions of ‘farming’ and ‘agriculture’ are used, as per Mass General Law Chapter 128 Sec. 1A.
• Farming in all its branches, the cultivation and tillage of the soil
• Dairying
• Production, cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural, aquacultural,
floricultural, viticultural or horticultural commodities
• Growing/harvesting of forest products on forest land, lumbering
• Raising livestock, including horses
• Keeping horses as a commercial enterprise
• Keeping, raising poultry, swine, cattle, ratites, camelids, other
domesticated animals for food, Ag purposes, bees, fur animals.
The Town may want to consider strategies that specifically support farming activities, such as:
• Continue supporting the local agricultural commission which advocates for farming.
• Document additional farms that may not presently be included in Brewster’s inventory of historic
resources, using MHC survey forms.
• Adopt a right-to-farm bylaw which allows farmers to carry on farming activities that may be
considered a nuisance to neighbors.
• Develop partnerships to raise funds to purchase development rights on farms or to assist farmers
in the restoration of historic farm buildings for which the owner would be required to donate a
preservation restriction (PR).
• Continue public-private partnerships to preserve farmland through purchase of conservation
restrictions (CRs) or agricultural preservation restrictions
There are several farm properties in Brewster, which are partially protected under Chapter 61A. These
farm properties include field crops, truck crops, cranberry bogs, and others. The agricultural and
horticultural land classification program under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 61A is designed to
encourage the preservation of the state’s valuable farmland and promote active agricultural and
horticultural land use. It offers significant local tax benefits to property owners willing to make a
commitment to farming. In exchange for these benefits, the city or Town in which the land is located is
given the right to recover some of the tax benefits afforded the owner when the land is removed from
classification and an option to purchase the property should the land be sold or used for any purpose other
than to continue raising farm products.
As of 2013, there were 61.52 acres under Chapter 61A Farmland. As of June 2020, there were 129.99
acres, more than double. The Agricultural Commission is glad to see an increased and active interest in
farming and farmland preservation.
2005 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT
APPROVAL OF THE COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT (CPA) IN BREWSTER
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a state law designed to help communities plan ahead for
sustainable growth. The CPA allows Towns to levy a community-wide property tax surcharge of up to 3%
for the purpose of creating a local Community Preservation fund that can qualify for state matching funds.
The fund must be used to acquire and protect Open Space and Recreation lands, preserve Historic Buildings,
Documents and Landscapes, and create and maintain Community Housing.
In Brewster, the CPA has replaced the Cape Cod Land Bank, which had previously funded Open Space
acquisitions. The Act also created a State fund which would provide the Town with matching funds. A
100% State match is anticipated for at least the near future.
The CPA was adopted by Town Meeting, November of 2004 and received ballot approval in May of 2005.
This approval results in a 3% surcharge on real estate tax, thereby replacing the Land Bank surcharge.
The Brewster By-law required that 50% must be spent or reserved for Open Space, 10% must be spent or
reserved for Community Housing and 10% must be spent or reserved for Historic Preservation. The balance,
30%, may be spent for Community Housing or Historic Preservation areas plus Recreation purposes. This
money is cumulative and can be spent in subsequent years. This gave Brewster the opportunity to determine
its priorities, plan for its future, and generate funds to implement those plans.
Community Preservation Committee Members:
Elliot Carr, Chairman Citizen Representative
Paul Hush, Vice Chairman Citizen Representative
Elizabeth G. Taylor, Clerk Planning Board
Michael Lach Citizen Representative
Paul Ruchinskas Citizen Representative
Roland W. Bassett, Jr. Recreation Commission
Roy Robinson OKH Historic District Committee
Stephen McKenna Conservation Commission
William Reyburn Housing Authority
2005: BBJ CRANBERRY TRUS: November 2005
2005 Fall Town Meeting, approved $3,650,000 to acquire 51 acres in SW Brewster , Map 38, Parcels
59,61,67,122,123,124,125 and 126. These lands are within Brewster’s Zone II for two (2) wells, as well as
within the Zone II of twenty-two (22) wells in abutting lands belonging to the Town of Dennis. The Dennis
Water Department contributed $1 million dollars towards this purchase. State Grant provided $500,000.
Included in this purchase were cranberry bogs and a vernal pool.
Total Cost: $3,650,000 State Grant: $500,000 Dennis Water District: $1,000,000
This property was purchased in two phases and bonded, with phase one to be paid off in 2025 and phase 2
in 2027.
2005: JORGENSON PROPERTY: November 2005 TM
At this same Town Meeting, voters approved $600,000 to purchase 8.5 acres abutting the BBJ Cranberry
Trust property. Located on Map 38, Parcel 93, this purchase was all wooded upland.
These two purchases received a total of $500,000 in state Self-help grant funds.
Total Cost: $600,000
This and the BBJ Cranberry Trust property were the first open space lands to be purchased using
CPA funds
2000-2007 OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Elizabeth G. Taylor, Chairman/Clerk - Planning Board Representative/
Open Space Plan Up-Date Coordinator
Gary Christen, Vice Chairman- Pathways Committee Representative
Cynthia Baran – Conservation Commission Representative
Read Kingsbury-Conservation Commission Representative
Dana Condit – Citizen-At-Large
Paula Goldberg – Citizen –At-Large
Thomas Kowalski – Citizen-At-Large
Donald Keeran – Citizen-At-Large
Peter Norton – Board of Selectmen Representative
William Porter-Water Commission Representative
Peter Soule – Brewster Conservation Trust Representative
Keith Johnson – Citizen-At-Large
2006 OPEN SPACE & RECREATION PLAN UPDATE:
Many of the thoughts and ideas expressed in the 2006 Open Space Plan are those written and produced by
the Conservation Commission in its 1985 Open Space & Recreation Plan; still as potent and provocative as
they were then. Many items contained within the 2006 text were freely lifted from the 1985 Plan. Many
of their recommendations have been followed; some still need to be accomplished. Their Plan still stands
as a clear, concise statement of the Town's open space policies and priorities and a useful planning tool for
Brewster over the next five to ten years.
2006: WILDLAND FIRE PROTECTION/PREPAREDNESS PLAN: PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
In 2006 the Wildland Fire Protection and Preparedness Plan for the Punkhorn Parklands Brewster,
Massachusetts was done by Caren A. Caljouw and Seth Wilkinson for the Town of Brewster and the
Cape Cod Cooperative Extension. This Wildland Fire Protection and Preparedness Plan was funded
through the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension in cooperation with the Town of Brewster, as part of a
county-wide initiative to address wildfire hazards on Town-owned or Town administered open space
tracts. The Town of Brewster nominated the Punkhorn Parklands as its highest priority for wildfire
assessment and preparedness planning. It is Brewster’s largest contiguous conservation property and
consists of mixed oak and pitch pine forest, which contains highly flammable and heavy fuel
accumulations. Residential development has increased within this interface area over the past two
decades, warranting assessment of wildfire risks and hazardous fuels.
Based on the primary management goal to reduce wildfire hazards within the Punkhorn Parklands through
an integrated and proactive land management program, the following objectives and strategies were
established.
1. Use prescribed burning and mechanical methods to reduce fuel loadings within priority fire-prone
areas of the Punkhorn Parklands.
2. Maintain the integrity of dirt roads and access points to provide for rapid response, fire
suppression, and fire breaks.
3. Provide neighboring landowners with information regarding fire hazards and recommendations to
protect life and property from wildfire.
4. Employ best management practices during the course of vegetation management to maintain and
enhance biological diversity in varying seral stages of the vegetation.
5. Offer prescribed burn training opportunities on these properties, emphasizing basic wildland fire
behavior, fire suppression, ignition techniques, and safety procedures.
6. Develop prescriptions for priority fuel reduction zones and other management units.
7. Establish team of land managers and fire professionals for Punkhorn Parklands to determine
implementation schedule and guide management actions.
All recommendations outlined in this plan could not be implemented immediately. Limitations of
technical resources, sequencing of actions, and limited funding resources required that priorities be
established. Those actions deemed most critical to reducing very hazardous fuel loads and providing for
public safety were to be addressed first. With grants received from Barnstable County the Town
purchased a tractor and equipment for mechanical treatment of areas in the Punkhorn. Staff has cut
vegetation in various areas to reduce fire hazards.
2007: STRANAHAN PROPERTY: 11-2007 TM
This 10 acre acquisition was a priority for the Open Space Committee for many years. It was rated as a
high priority parcel for protection by the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, the Association to
Preserve Cape Cod and the Open Space Committee for wildlife habitat/corridors, rare species, Stony
Brook water quality protection and scenic value. In the past, the Town, the Brewster Conservation Trust
and Cape Cod Museum of Natural History have collectively preserved over 70 acres of land in the
immediate vicinity of the Stony Brook Valley. In addition, lands were protected downstream and
upstream to help protect the scenic beauty of Stony Brook Valley, as well as help protect the water quality
of Cape Cod's most popular and historic herring run. In addition, an abutter agreed to donate a perpetual
conservation restriction on 30 acres of land to the Brewster Conservation Trust.
Total cost: $1,200,000, State grant funds $500,000, CPA funds $630,000, Private funds $70,000 BCT
2007: CRYSTALOSKI PROPERTY: 11-2007 TM
Purchase of land that had been in the top percentile of the Town's priority acquisition list for many years.
The 5+ acre property is adjacent to 263+ acres of virtually unfragmented pitch pine/oak forest east of
Route 137 and south of Freeman's Way. This acquisition benefitted well-field protection (Wells #1, #2
and #3) as well as wildlife habitat protection. Purchase of this property helped the Town comply with the
state's suggested total daily maximum nitrogen loading limits for the Pleasant Bay Watershed by
preventing the development and associated on-site septic systems that might otherwise occupy this site in
the future.
Total cost: $69,680 CPA funds $69,680
2008: DISTRICT OF CRITICAL PLANNING CONCERN (DCPC)
In 2008 the Town applied for a Designation of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC) encompassing all Zone
IIs and the Pleasant Bay Watershed, which was approved by the Cape Cod Commission and the
Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates. This put a development moratorium in effect, allowing the
Town time to enact bylaws that would protect the DCPC area. Three primary factors led the Town to
declare this area a “District of Critical Planning Concern” (DCPC) through the Cape Cod Commission.
The first was that Brewster’s Industrial (I) zone was sited prior to the realization that the land in the south
east corner of our Town lies within the zone of contribution (Zones 1 & 2) to some of the Town’s most
important water resources.
The second was that the State and the EPA had declared that Pleasant Bay is an “impacted water body”,
which meant that the health of the Bay’s ecosystem was rapidly declining.
The third and by far, the largest and most widespread threats to Brewster’s water resources, came from
wastewater (Title 5 septic specifically) and from sprawling patterns of development that needlessly
consumed land and contributed multiple risks of contamination within the vulnerable groundwater
recharge area. Open space purchases alone would not sufficiently safeguard the Town’s water resources.
To protect Brewster’s water resource district, the Town suggested adopting new zoning and land use
management practices within the DCPC.
2008: WATER QUALITY PROTECTION BYLAW: November 2008
This bylaw replaced the existing “Groundwater Protection District Bylaw” (GWPD), which was instituted
in 1994. This new proposed district followed the bounds of the Town’s zones of contribution to public
drinking water supplies and included the land area which had been determined to be in the watershed to
Pleasant Bay (The DCPC).
The existing GWPD bylaw did not reflect changes to state laws and regulations related to groundwater
protection, which control land uses in these areas, where many activities are deemed to be too risky to
water quality to be allowed. As a zoning bylaw, this bylaw did not close, shut-down or stop any activities
which were currently taking place. It only tightened control of the land use activities which had been
allowed to develop and grow virtually unchecked for decades in the Industrial zone and to prohibited new
uses and activities, which could threaten water quality, both within the district and throughout Town. In
addition to toxic chemicals and pollutants, the State had determined that one of the greatest threats to the
quality of groundwater and the health of coastal and marine resources, such as Pleasant Bay, is nitrogen,
which comes primarily from septic waste. The State had established what the safe and healthy level of
nitrogen is for Pleasant Bay. Based on that, the EPA has adopted a “Total Maximum Daily Load of
Nitrogen” (TMDL) that each watershed can safely contribute to the Bay without further damaging the
marine ecosystem.
As a result, Brewster needed to do 2 things; 1) adopt more stringent land use regulations and controls to
prohibit new nitrogen from entering the watersheds and 2) require existing development within the
watershed to take remedial actions to reduce the amount of nitrogen that they were currently releasing
into the watershed. This bylaw represents the first of several regulations that were adopted to protect the
Town’s ground and marine water resources and bring the Town into compliance with State and Federal
guidelines. The Water Quality Protection Bylaw (Article XI) is an overlay district encompassing the
entire Town of Brewster. The intent of this bylaw was to establish specific requirements for land uses and
activities within those portions of Town mapped and identified on the Brewster Zoning Map as the
District of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC) entitled “Brewster Water Protection District.” The DCPC
includes areas designated as Zone I and Zone II as well as the Groundwater Protection District and the
Pleasant Bay Watershed. The bylaw outlines uses that will be exempt from its oversight, but specifically
calls out uses that are prohibited Town-wide as well as those prohibited in Zone I, Zone II, and/or the
DCPC. Performance standards are provided.
2008: SAND & GRAVEL MINING BYLAW: November 2008
This bylaw was designed to bring best management practices to earth moving and soil mining activities in
Brewster. Soil mining and earth moving activities had gone on in Brewster for years, with very little
regulation and control. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection had recently
classified earth mining as a principal risk to groundwater resources. As a zoning bylaw, this article did not
shut-down or close existing operations, but allowed for the continuation of these activities, provided they
complied with special permit requirements for new or expanded mining activity. At the request of the
Water Department, this bylaw increased the depth of the earth/sand filter that must be maintained over the
historical high ground water from four (4) to ten (10) feet, and required re-vegetation of disturbed areas as
the sand resources are exhausted.
2009: QUIVETT MARSH VISTA – PRATT PROPERTY: May 2009 TM
This 10 acre acquisition was a priority for the Open Space Committee for many years. It was rated as a
high priority parcel for protection by the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, the Association to
Preserve Cape Cod and the Open Space Committee for wildlife habitat/corridors, rare species, Stony
Brook water quality protection and scenic value. In the past, the Town, the Brewster Conservation Trust
and Cape Cod Museum of Natural History had collectively preserved over 70 acres of land in the
immediate vicinity of the Stony Brook Valley. In addition, lands had been protected downstream and
upstream to help protect the scenic beauty of Stony Brook Valley, as well as help protect the water quality
of Cape Cod's most popular and historic herring run. In addition, an abutter agreed to donate a perpetual
conservation restriction on 30 acres of land to the Brewster Conservation Trust.
Total Cost: $675,000, State grant $ 351,156, CPA funds $100,000, Dennis Conservation Trust $15,000,
BCT: $208,844
2009: BATES PROPERTY: October 2009 TM
This purchase of land represented an extraordinary opportunity for the Town to protect and preserve
35.83 acres of forested uplands located directly over drinking water resources, containing varied and
diverse habitats, and abutting the Punkhorn Parklands, which includes over 875 acres of contiguous
preserved open space. These parcels are strategically located at the southeast gateway to the Punkhorn
and round out this entrance to the Parklands. This property has long been desired as the most important
acquisition remaining in this area. Comprised wholly of upland pine-oak forest, the woodland block will
extend and enhance this unfragmented forest cited as the most popular conservation area in Town by its
residents. The land protects Brewster and Harwich’s well-fields, and is within the southwest area of the
recently approved District of Critical Planning Concern. The Town received a State L.A.N.D. grant in the
amount of $500,000 to augment this acquisition expense.
Total cost: $1,175,000, State grant $500,000, CPA funds $675,000
This purchase was bonded and will be paid off in FY2031.
2009: NATURAL RESOURCE PROTECTION DESIGN BYLAW (NRPD): November 2009 TM
The NRPD bylaw was enacted during the moratorium created by the DCPC. The primary purpose of this
bylaw was to protect water resources and preserve the open space of Brewster as identified in the DCPC.
This bylaw fostered compact development patterns using flexible regulations for density and lot
dimensions and to promoted and encouraged creativity in neighborhood design. The Town encourages the
use of Natural Resource Protection Design (“NRPD”) because NRPD results in the protection of water
resources and the preservation of contiguous open space and important environmental resources, while
allowing design flexibility. NRPD reduces development impacts on surface and ground waters, forests,
farmland, wildlife habitats, large tracts of contiguous open space, environmentally sensitive areas, steep
slopes, scenic views and historically and culturally significant areas. NRPD also helps to reduce areas of
impervious surface when compared to traditional grid subdivisions.
Cluster development that occurs in DCPC Zone II areas and the Pleasant Bay Watershed is encouraged to
follow specified design and layout standards based on the Town’s Natural Resource Protection Design
(NRPD) Bylaw (Article XIII). The NRPD Bylaw requires applicants for the subdivision of land to
conduct a natural resource analysis and development impact statement, which assesses how the proposed
development may impact the natural environment, including air quality, water resources, soils, plants and
wildlife. Guidance on conducting the analysis and impact statement is provided in Subsection B.3 of
Section 290-10 of the Brewster Subdivision Rules and Regulations. The NRPD Bylaw also dictates
minimum requirements for dedicated open space acreage, as follows:
• R-R District: minimum of 80%
• R-L District: minimum of 65%
• R-M District: minimum of 65%
Among other performance standards and requirements, the bylaw outlines how the maximum number of
residential units is calculated. The Town also provides density bonuses for projects that include, for
example, wastewater treatment for properties outside of the project area that are using Title 5 systems,
providing open space greater than the minimum percentage or if the applicant deeds public access to the
open space portion of the project. To encourage this type of development, NRPD is allowed by right,
subject only to the requirements of the Regulations Governing the Subdivision of Land. NRPD that does
not require approval as a subdivision is allowed by right subject to endorsement by the Planning Board.
2009: BREWSTER INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN
In 2009, the Town of Brewster Comprehensive Water Planning Committee recognized that an integrated
approach was needed to protect and restore the Town’s waters. Integrated water management recognizes
that impacts to groundwater also affect surface waters and vice versa. Both water quality and quantity
impacts are possible, so any evaluation of the Town’s water resources must consider both. The Brewster
Integrated Water Resource Management Plan (IWRMP)47 was implemented in three phases. Building on
the work of Phases I and II, Phase III began in 2013 and assessed the challenges and proposed solutions
to manage the Town’s water resources, specifically the evaluation of wastewater and nitrogen
management alternatives, and the development and finalization of updated by-laws and regulations to
implement the stormwater management recommendations developed during Phase II.48
2012: MATTHEWS PROPERTY: May 2021 TM
This acquisition was a cooperative venture between the Towns of Brewster and Orleans. This 22.5 acre
parcels lies wholly within Brewster's District of Critical Planning Concern, the well-field protection zone
for Orleans' and the Pleasant Bay Watershed for both Brewster and Orleans. These forested uplands were
acquired for the dual purpose of water protection and conservation. Brewster owns the land; the Brewster
Conservation Commission maintains custody and control of the property. The Town of Orleans holds a
watershed preservation/conservation restriction on the land in return for their participation. The Brewster
Conservation Trust purchased an adjoining 8 acre parcel for conservation and water protection purposes.
The Town of Brewster also transferred 5 acres of nearby tax title land to the Conservation Commission,
protecting a total of 35 acres for watershed protection.
Total cost: $750,000, State grant $375,000, CPA funds $187,500, Town of Orleans $187,500
These parcels, plus the Jackson property, became the Read Kingsbury Conservation Area, when Read
died in 2010.
2011: SEIDEL PROPERTY: November 2011 TM
This 6 acre purchase of a buildable, forested parcel surrounded on three sides by Town land helped to
supplement the Punkhorn Parklands conservation area, the Town's largest and most popular open space
district. A trail already used for many years by hikers crosses this property to reach Town land. The parcel
lies within Brewster's District of Critical Planning Concern and provides protection to the zone of
contribution to the Town's drinking water supply wells located close by in the Punkhorn. This parcel
drains into the Punkhorn River drainage system, flowing into Upper Mill Pond and critical habitat
47 https://horsleywitten.com/brewsterIWRMP/
48 https://horsleywitten.com/brewsterIWRMP/documents.html
headwaters for Brewster’s Herring Run. The Conservation Commission manages this parcel as part of the
Punkhorn Parkland.
Total cost: $250,000, CPA funds $250,000
2011: JACKSON PROPERTY: 11-2011 TM
This 3 acre purchase of a buildable forested parcel provided a gateway into the Read Kingsbury
(Matthews) Town Conservation Area, established last year with Town Meeting approval. Orleans Town
Meeting voted to contribute one-quarter of the funds. This is the same funding approach the Town used
successfully with the 23-acre Read Kingsbury Conservation Area purchase last year. The land is located
within Brewster's District of Critical Planning Concern and the Pleasant Bay Watershed. Orleans now
holds a Wellfield Preservation Restriction on this parcel.
Total cost: $200,000, CPA funds $143,750, Town of Orleans $56,250
Overview of Purchases since 2005-2011:
Acres purchased # of parcels Total Cost Grants Town of Orleans Private
92.63 12 $4,950,000 $1,726,156 $396,344 $85,000
The Open Space Committee is always open to "wish lists" from the Pathways Committee, the Conservation
Commission, the Recreation and Water Departments. With the creation of the Community Preservation
Committee, open space purchases can now be cooperatively purchased with housing monies. This allows
the Town to purchase large tracks of land that also include housing and/or cleared lands that can be used
for housing. This flexibility greatly improves the Town’s ability to provide lands to help fulfill community
housing needs.
2012: COPELAS PROPERTIES: October 2012 TM
These two parcels, one in East Brewster and one in West Brewster, totaling 82 acres, represented the
largest parcels available for residential development in Brewster’s District of Critical Planning
Concern/ZONE II that protects well-fields. In fact, the seller had approvals from the Town for a total of
29 house lots on these two parcels. These forested parcels provided important wildlife habitat, protection
for existing municipal well-fields and had been a top priority for acquisition for many years. A network of
walking trails already exists on the parcels that could be opened for public use and devoted to links in the
Cape Cod Pathways Program. The Water Department and Conservation officials supported these
purchases. The gross purchase price for the 82 acres was about $22,000 per acre, which would be offset
by state grants and other local funds.
The Brewster Water Commissioners agreed to fund the $660,000 expense to pay for the Freeman’s Way
property (Naumkeag Acres). The Freeman’s Way parcel also lies within the Pleasant Bay Watershed. The
Slough Road property (Windrift Acres) contributed to the Herring River and the Bass River Watersheds.
Brewster’s nitrogen contributions to all three of these watersheds may be subject to regional wastewater
nitrogen loading requirements in the future.
The Town closed on the Naumkeag Acres (Freemans Way) in December of 2013.
Total Cost: $660,000: These funds were provided by the Water Commissioners.
The Windrift Acres acquisition, located in west Brewster, was stalled since the owner was in court with
title issues. This parcel would have to wait and return to TM as a new project.
TAX TITLE TAKING TRANSFERS:
Since 2007, the Town has been become more active in taking vacant lands for non-payment of real estate
taxes. The Brewster Conservation Trust has assisted in identifying lands that had conservation value. Up
to 2011, 97 acres had been transferred to the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. In
2012, a total of 64.52 acres were transferred to Conservation. This is an on-going process.
CONSERVATION PROPERTIES:
According to the Town Assessor’s Database, The Brewster Conservation Commission owns and manages
about 822 acres of conservation land within the Town of Brewster. This represents a 275% increase in
land owned and managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission, since that reported in the 2007
Open Space and Recreation Plan. It is important to note that there were many un-reconciled parcels in the
2007 Open Space and Recreation Plan, so some of this increase could be attributed to the reconciliation of
these parcels.
The Town of Brewster also maintains many acres of “other municipally-owned and managed
conservation lands,” which are owned and managed by other Town agencies, such as the Board of
Selectmen. Many of these lands have been managed and maintained by the Conservation
Commission/Department of Natural Resources for years, even though they were not under their custody
and control. The Town has reviewed the deeds and Town meeting articles for all of these lands and has
started the process of transferring pertinent parcels to the custody and control of the Conservation
Commission. This process is anticipated to be ongoing over the next several years until all Town lands
are under the custody and control of the correct department
2012: BREWSTER CONSERVATION DAY:
Brewster Conservation Day started in 2012 by the Town and Brewster Conservation Trust to celebrate the
community’s natural resources and organizations dedicated to saving them. With over 40 unique
presentations, one can learn from interactive exhibits on aquaculture, natural plant gardening, and water
resources. The daylong event celebrating Brewster’s environmental wonders draws over 800 visitors.
2012: STONY BROOK MILLSITES DAM RESTORATION
This was a CPC funded project, using Historic Preservation funds.
Total Cost: $182,025
2013 OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
This committee included:
Elizabeth G. Taylor, Chairman/Clerk - Planning Board Representative/
Gary Christen, Vice Chairman- Pathways Committee Representative
Jeanne Boehm – Conservation Commission Representative
Danielle Jesudowich – Citizen-At-Large
Keith Johnson – Citizen-At-Large
Donald Keeran – Citizen-At-Large
Thomas Kowalski – Citizen-At-Large
Peter Norton – Board of Selectmen Representative
2013: OPEN SPACE PLAN UPDATE:
This Open Space and Recreation Plan Update was accomplished with the assistance of a consultant from
Horsley Witten. It included a review of all town beaches and conservation areas performed by the Council
on Aging All Access Committee.
VIPRINO: May 5, 2014 TM
This article enabled the Town to acquire and conserve 3.46 acres of land located on Black Duck Cartway.
This parcel consists of contiguous forest land and wetland buffer zone, ringed on three sides by the
Town’s largest Conservation Area – the 900+ acre Punkhorn Parklands. This property is within the Zone
II (zone of contribution) to public water supply well-fields serving Harwich and Brewster, and adjacent to
the Town’s newest drinking water well. The purchase price of $114,000 (less than $40,000 per acre)
reflects a seller’s discount, owing to a state tax credit for preserving critical habitat and water protection
land. The land will be placed under the custody of the Town’s Conservation Commission and further
protected by a Conservation Restriction to be held by the Brewster Conservation Trust.
Total Cost: $114,
2014: BREAKWATER BEACH RESTORATION 5-2014 TM
This was also a CPC funded project, using Recreation funds.
$59,675 local match + state grant
2014: ELDREDGE PROPERTY: November 2014 TM: Cedar Ridge Reserve Conservation Area
This article enabled the Town to acquire and conserve more than three acres abutting the 17-acre
Drummer Boy Town Park, one of the most popular public gathering spots in Brewster. This waterfront lot
is strategically located between historic Main Street and the large Quivett Creek estuary, a major saltwater
resource shared with the Town of Dennis. This purchase permanently preserved and protected 300 feet
along the edge of Quivett Creek Marsh, offering water quality and habitat protection. This parcel had
been a high priority acquisition for the Town for many years. The purchase price of $500,000 reflects a
seller’s discount of $100,000, owing to a state tax credit for preserving critical habitat and marsh-front
protection land. The non-profit Brewster Conservation Trust (BCT) pledged $100,000 towards the
purchase price, lowering the Town’s net cost. In addition the Town applied for a State LAND grant to
offset the cost. This property was placed under the custody of the Town Conservation Commission and
further protected by a Conservation Restriction held by the BCT. This purchase also enabled the Town to
extend a walking trail from the Drummer Boy out to an overlook of the marshes, with a view of Cape Cod
Bay.
Total Cost: $500.000 CPC: $140,000 State Self-help Grant: $260,000 BCT: $100,000
2015: SANTARELLO PROPERTY: May 4, 2015 TM
The Town acquired and conserved a buildable lot of forest land adjoining the Town’s main wellfield off
Route 137 using both CPA and Water Department funds. The parcel is located on Long Pond Road next
to the wellfield access road and protects water quality in the Brewster wellfield. The purchase price of
$140,000 reflects a seller’s discount, owing to a state tax credit for preserving critical habitat and water
protection land. The Water Commission contributed $60,000 towards this purchase and took custody of
the land. The Brewster Conservation Trust contributed $20,000 towards this purchase and hold the
Conservation Restriction. The remaining $60, 000 came from CPA funds.
Total Cost: $140,000 CPC: $60,000 Water Commissioners: $60,000 BCT: $20,000
2015: LALOR PROPERETY: May 4, 2015 TM
The Town acquired and conserved a buildable lot of forest land in the Town’s Punkhorn Parklands using
both CPA and Water Department funds. The parcel is located on West Gate Road across from the Town’s
newest public well and protects water quality in the Punkhorn wellfields. The property is within the
ZONE II (zone of contribution) to public water supply wellfields serving Harwich and Brewster. The
property abuts Town-owned conservation land within the Punkhorn. The purchase price of $60,000
reflected a seller’s discount, owing to a state tax credit for preserving critical habitat and water protection
land. The Water Commissioners contributed $25,000 towards this purchase. The land was placed under
the custody of the Town Conservation Commission and is further protected by a Conservation Restriction
held by the Brewster Conservation Trust. The Trust contributed $10,000 towards this purchase.
Total Cost: $60,000 CPC: $25,000 Water Commissioners: $25,000 BCT: $10,000
2015 05 TM Millsites/ Herring River Restoration
A CPC funded project using Recreation funds.
Total Cost: $3,101 CPC: $3,101
2015: MILL POND CONSERVATION AREA: September 2015 TM - PURCHASE OF CRs
The Mill Pond Conservation Project involved the preservation of two lots directly across the street from
the Town’s eastern ZONE II, protecting the 110-acre Frey Wellfield. Drinking water recharge
areas/wellfields has always been at the top of Brewster’s land acquisition list and these properties
specifically benefit wellfield protection (Wells #1, #2 and #3) as well as preserving pine-oak-beech
woodlands wildlife habitat. Preservation of these parcels also precluded additional nitrogen loads which
would have resulted from development of these two parcels within the ZONE II of Brewster and Orleans
wellfields. Both parcels sit on Mill Pond, a heavily impaired pond, putting them on the Priority Pond
Parcel acquisition list for protection of Brewster ponds. These properties also fall within the Herring
River Watershed and have been reviewed as part of the Massachusetts Estuaries Project (MEP).
Preservation of these properties will help the Town comply with the state's suggested total maximum
daily loading (TMDL) nitrogen limits for the Herring River Watershed by preventing development and
associated on-site septic systems that might otherwise occupy this site in the future. Brewster
Conservation Trust (BCT) is paying $150,000 for each property (totaling $300,000) and the Town is
paying $50,000 for the Conservation Restriction on each property (totaling $100,000) and will hold said
Conservation Restrictions.
Total Cost: $100,000 for 2 CRs CPC: $100,000 BCT: $300,000 to purchase both properties.
2016: SHEEP POND WOODLANDS - Boehm Conservation Restriction: May 2016 TM
This acquisition allowed the Town to continue its partnership with the non-profit Brewster Conservation
Trust (BCT), working together to preserve critical open space, in this case, 11.11 acres (two potential
building lots) stretching from Gulls Way to the Cape Cod Rail Trail. The property is within the pond
recharge area of Sheep Pond, one of the Town’s top five ponds with the highest water quality. Preventing
further development in this area helps the pond remain pristine. The Town owns almost 80 acres of
conservation land east of this acquisition, known as Sheep Pond Woodlands. The BCT owns the land,
subject to a permanent Conservation Restriction held by the Town Conservation Commission. The
parcels are open to the public for passive recreation activities, such as walking, hiking and bicycling. The
BCT provided $150,000 of the total purchase price. The Town provided $125,000 to hold the
Conservation Restriction on the two lots.
Total Cost: $150,000 CPC: $125,000 for CR BCT: $150,000
2016: BREWSTER COASTAL ADAPTATION STRATEGY
In 2016, the Brewster Coastal Access Advisory Group conducted a survey to gather opinions about
accessibility, amenities, usage, water quality, and other issues around the Town’s beaches. Around 2,000
people completed the survey. Results were used to develop the Brewster Coastal Adaptation Strategy.
The strategy is a framework for future decision-making about Brewster’s public coastal areas. It assists
the Town in meeting the diverse access needs of the community and adapting to coastal change, sea level
rise, storm surge, and shoreline erosion.
MEETINGHOUSE ROAD – November 2017 TM
South side of Copelas property, essentially the open space portion of the proposed sub-division. The
Borden Burks contacted the Town as owners, wanting to sell to Town for conservation.
The acquisition is a 27-acre parcel located off Slough Road in West Brewster, within Brewster wellfield
buffers to existing municipal wellfields. This purchase provided protection to a large tract in and of itself,
but also secured a “missing link” in the 100 acre swath of woods the Town had been working to cobble
together for conservation and wellfield protection purposes over the past 20 years. A network of walking
trails already existed on the parcel, which is now open for public use and devoted to links in the Cape Cod
Pathways. Located in Brewster’s western District of Critical Environmental Concern, this parcel is also
within the marine recharge area for the Herring River and Bass River. This parcel has Town Conservation
land on two sides with the Dennis Water Department wellfield forming the western boundary. The
Brewster Conservation Trust contributed $50,000 towards this purchase. The Dennis Water Department
was approached for a contribution towards this purchase, but had no funds to do so. The Town has also
applied for a State Land Grant. Map 8, Lot 1 Brewster Water Department
Total Cost: $432,000 CPC: $155,657 State L.A.N.D. Grant: $226,343 BCT: $50,000
2017: BREWSTER VISION PLAN
In 2017, the Town designed a visioning process that engaged residents to understand the community’s
values, key issues the Town would face in the future, and priority actions it should take to address these
issues. Three deep-dive community workshops were held in late June of 2017 that asked residents what
they value about Brewster, what are its challenges, and what are its assets.
Approximately 135 citizens participated. The results led to the key issues, or building blocks: community
character, open space, housing, local economy, coastal management, water resources, governance, and
community infrastructure. Local experts worked together to draft summary papers for each building block
that provided background information and summaries of issues in Brewster. A second round of
workshops were held to review this information and produced a list of priority actions for the Town.
In February 2018, the Town administered a survey asking citizens to rate the importance of each action,
from “not important” to “extremely important.” The survey was available on-line and paper copies were
available in locations throughout Town. Over 1,200 people took the survey. Water resources and open
space were the highest scoring building blocks. Because all the actions in these building blocks were rated
as important or higher, all were incorporated into the final Vision Plan.
From this input, the Town drafted the Brewster Vision Plan and conducted a final round of workshops
that focused on implementation. Participants identified stakeholders for each building block, including
Town government, community groups, and individuals. The final plan49 was presented to the Select
Board, which it approved in July 2018.
2018: LONG POND WOODLANDS: Robinson Property May 2018 TM
The Long Pond Woodlands acquisition project involved the preservation of a critical 42.01 acre property
extending from Route 137 to Long Pond, which had been a high priority for the Open Space Committee
for over 30 years. These woodlands lie within the Town’s Eastern Zone II and specifically provide
drinking water protection for Wells #1, #2 and #3. This heavily forested pine-oak-beech woodland is
within the MA Priority Habitat for Rare and Endangered Species and the Statewide Land Conservation
Plan area. These parcels sit on Long Pond, an impaired Great Pond, putting it high on the Priority Pond
Parcel acquisition list for the protection of Brewster ponds. This property falls within the Herring River
Watershed and has been reviewed as part of the Massachusetts Estuaries Project (MEP). Preservation of
this property helped the Town comply with the State’s suggested Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)
49 http://records.brewster-ma.gov/weblink/DocView.aspx?dbid=0&id=90826&page=1&cr=1
nitrogen limit for the Herring River Watershed, by preventing development and associated on-site septic
systems that could have occupied this site in the future. The Town applied for State Grant funds towards
this acquisition. The property is managed for conservation, watershed protection and passive recreation.
The Brewster Conservation Trust contributed a gift of $230,000 towards the purchase price of the
property and holds the Conservation Restriction.
Total Cost: $1,750,000 CPC: $ 1,120,000 State L.A.N.D. Grant: $400,000 BCT: $230.000
2019: WINDRIFT ACRES: Copelas Property: March 2019 TM
This purchase of land provided the Town with an extraordinary opportunity to protect and preserve 24
acres of forested uplands located over drinking water resources (Zone II) and containing forested habitats,
virtually surrounded by existing Town-owned open space for conservation and future public wellfield
development. This property had long been desired as a high priority parcel by the Town Open Space
Committee. It was one of the few remaining large undeveloped District of Critical Planning Concern
properties and had been approved for nine house lots. The Town applied for grants to augment this
acquisition expense. The property is managed for conservation, watershed protection and passive
recreation (trails). The Brewster Water Commissioners supported this acquisition and voted to contribute
$70,000. The Brewster Conservation Trust contributed $75,000 and holds the Conservation Restriction.
Total cost: $725,000 CPC: $203,000 Water Commissioners: $ 70,000
State L.A.N.D. Grant: $ 377,000 BCT: $75,000
2019: BREWSTER COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN
In 2019, Phase 1 of the Town’s Coastal Resources Management Plan was released.50 Lead by the
Brewster Coastal Committee, the plan articulates a vision and policy direction for managing the Town’s
coastal resources. It identifies five priority issues and recommends management strategies for
implementation. These include:
• Increase resilience of public beaches and landings
• Preserve ecosystem services provided by healthy coastal wetlands
• Provide access for water dependent activities
• Preserve peak-season access to public beaches and landings
• Protect infrastructure, visual access, and sense of place threatened by changing conditions
The plan builds on prior planning initiatives, including those listed above. It was developed in
consultation with topical experts and public input from five workshops. The plan will help the Town meet
the diverse access needs of the community and adapt to coastal change.
BREWSTER MUNICIPAL VULNERABILITY PREPAREDNESS WORKSHOP
In 2019, the Town received funding from the Massachusetts Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness
(MVP) Program to complete climate change vulnerability assessments and resiliency planning. An MVP
workshop was held in March 2019 to identify the natural hazards threatening the Town that are
exacerbated by climate change. Mitigation actions that can be taken to reduce the adverse effects were
discussed and prioritized. Twenty-two community members participated in the workshop, representing
different areas of Town.
Attendees recommended seven high priority action items to address vulnerabilities and build on existing
strengths. The seven elements are highlighted in the MVP Workshop Summary Report.51 Following the
50 https://www.brewster-ma.gov/committees-mainmenu-29/coastal-committee/2588-final-phase-i-brewster-coastal-
resource-management-plan
51 http://records.brewster-
ma.gov/weblink/0/edoc/107178/Brewster%20MVP%20Workshop%20Summary%20Report.pdf
workshop, the Town held a public information and listening session to provide an opportunity for
residents to learn, ask questions, and provide feedback on the seven high priority items identified at the
workshop.
2020: FIELD /KELLEY PROPERTY: 2020 TM
This acquisition represented one of the last remaining large lots abutting the western boundary of Brewster’s
Freeman’s Way Wellfields and within the eastern District of Critical Planning Concern that protect the
Town’s wellfields. The total lot size is 11.79 acres. The Town acquired the eastern 10.41 acres of the lot.
Aside from being 100% within the Zone 2 Contribution to Public Water Supply, this property also falls
100% within BioMap2 Critical Natural Landscape, is 100% within Massachusetts Natural Heritage and
Endangered Species Program (“NHESP”) Priority Habitat of Rare Species and 100% within NHESP
Estimated Habitat of Rare Wildlife. The Town Board of Water Commissioners, Town Natural Resources
Department, Conservation Commission, Open Space Committee, Selectmen and Town Administrator all
supported this purchase, as did the Brewster Conservation Trust (BCT). The gross purchase price for the
10.41 acres was $370,500.00.
Total Cost: $370,500 CPC: $77,437 State LAND Grant: $193,063 Water Commissioners: $70,000
BCT: $30,000
VERNAL POOLS:
The Town of Brewster contains 38 certified vernal pools. A vernal pool is a temporary pool that forms
during spring rains, through the retention of snowmelt or in low lying areas that intercept seasonally high
water tables. The water is usually held in depressions or low areas and will persist until the heat of
summer causes evaporation of the water. Although typically dry during the summer months, vernal pools
may fill up again during late autumn wet spells and may hold water through the winter. Although vernal
pools are usually associated with woodlands, vernal pools have been found in other low lying areas such
as meadows and sandflats. Vernal pools are important wildlife habitat for a variety of amphibian and
invertebrate species, some of which are completely dependent on the pools for their survival and have a
limited ability to find other suitable breeding locations when "their" vernal pool is lost. The temporary
nature of the pools precludes the establishment of fish populations. Without predation by fish,
amphibian’s eggs, and larvae are able to mature, making these pools ideal habitat for certain species of
frogs and salamanders, as well as other invertebrate species.
2019: CURRENT OPEN SPACE & RECREATION PLAN UPDATE: November 18, 2019 TM
Brewster’s current Open Space and Recreation Plan is dated 2013 and state approval expired July 2020.
The update contains all of the components of the previous plan, modified to reflect a current picture of the
community’s needs and goals related to recreation and conservation for the next seven years. With an
approved Open Space and Recreation Plan, the Town will be eligible to apply for a number of grant
programs administered by the state. An updated plan will also be useful in coordination of acquisition
efforts by state agencies and local/regional land trusts. The Plan has been updated with the assistance of
consultants from Horsley Witten and The Cape Cod Commission. The Update Group consisted of Chris
Miller, Director of Natural Resources, Michael Gradone, Director of Recreation Department, Elizabeth
Taylor, Chair of the Open Space Committee, Krista Moravec of Horsley Witten, and Jessica Rempel of
the Cape Cod Commission.
Total Cost: CPC $32,500 including $2,500 for CPC legal costs.
2021 OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE:
Elizabeth Taylor, Chair
Gary Christen, Vice Chair
Don Keeran
Peter Herrmann
Peter Norton
Bruce Evans
Tom Kowalski
Phil Burt
SB liaison Mary Chaffee
Town Conservation Commission Land and Facilities
According to the Town Assessor’s Database, The Brewster Conservation Commission owns and manages
about 822 acres of conservation land within the Town of Brewster. Properties owned and managed by the
Brewster Conservation Commission are summarized in Appendix D. The Town of Brewster also
maintains at least 1,000 acres of “other municipally-owned and managed conservation lands,” which are
owned and managed by other Town agencies, such as the Select Board. Many of these lands have been
managed and maintained by the Conservation Commission/ Department of Natural Resources for years,
even though they were not under their custody and control. The Town reviewed the deeds and Town
meeting articles for all of these lands and many parcels were transferred to the custody and control of the
Conservation Commission. The Brewster Conservation Trust now holds a Conservation Restriction on all
the parcels that were transferred to the Conservation Commission. This process is not quite finished yet. It
is anticipated to be completed over the next several years, after which all Town lands will be under the
custody and control of the correct department.
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
1 / 82
Q1 How important is it to preserve:
Answered: 596 Skipped: 4
94.42%
558
4.74%
28
0.85%
5
0.00%
0
591
84.40%
503
12.25%
73
2.68%
16
0.67%
4
596
83.13%
488
14.99%
88
1.70%
10
0.17%
1
587
77.40%
459
20.24%
120
2.02%
12
0.34%
2
593
73.99%
441
23.83%
142
1.51%
9
0.67%
4
596
52.11%
309
36.26%
215
10.79%
64
0.84%
5
593
51.18%
304
37.88%
225
9.60%
57
1.35%
8
594
49.32%
290
37.59%
221
10.88%
64
2.21%
13
588
48.40%
288
35.97%
214
13.28%
79
2.35%
14
595
Extremely Important Moderately Important Slightly Important
Not At All Important
Land
areas
for
prot...
Beach
land
and
acce...
Habitat
areas
for
wild...
Buffer
areas
around
pond...
Open
spaces
for
pass...
Agricul
tural
land
and...
Aesthet
ics/sce
nic
view...
Tracts
of land
linking
open...
Places
for
active
recr...
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
EXTREMELY
IMPORTANT
MODERATELY
IMPORTANT
SLIGHTLY
IMPORTANT
NOT AT ALL
IMPORTANT
TOTAL
Land areas for protection of
groundwater and drinking water
Beach land and access points for
coastal recreation
Habitat areas for wildlife
Buffer areas around ponds, lakes, and
wetlands
Open spaces for passive recreation
(e.g. hiking trails)
Agricultural land and farmland
Aesthetics/scenic views and vistas
Tracts of land linking open space
parcels
Places for active recreation (e.g. ball
fields)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
2 / 82
89.04%528
77.07%457
75.89%450
71.84%426
70.32%417
4.72%28
Q2 What Town actions do you favor to preserve and protect open space?
(Check all that apply)
Answered: 593 Skipped: 7
Total Respondents: 593
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Zoning that mandates open space conservation 6/12/2021 6:39 AM
2 taking of land that has been polluted 5/6/2020 11:35 PM
3 Cooperative efforts by all 5/5/2020 11:59 AM
4 Consider Joint Open Space and Housing projects together 4/30/2020 3:41 PM
5 Need less privatization of our coastline. More public beaches.4/30/2020 8:43 AM
6 We have enough open space stop buying it.4/24/2020 2:42 PM
7 Use of native species and discouragement/removal of invasive species. Regulations requiring
inclusion of bicycle and pedestrian accommodations in all transportation projects.
Establishment and maintenance of means for safe non-motorized commuting and
transportation to schools, parks, recreation facilities, work, primary shopping. First Nation
rights must be acknowledged.
4/23/2020 3:05 PM
8 Why are we approving so much construction and development? Why approval of massive
houses on our beaches?
4/23/2020 8:17 AM
9 Ongoing systematic reporting of acres - open space, developed land and undetermined land -
from year to year by the assessors office, so we can all have the same facts to monitor the
trends
4/22/2020 11:26 AM
10 Active Go-Fund me programs to generate funds to buy and protect space 4/20/2020 2:55 PM
11 Policy that promotes hunting and fishing 4/20/2020 2:36 PM
12 More hunting areas WMZones 4/19/2020 1:36 PM
13 Trails along streams 4/19/2020 9:43 AM
14 The town should remain neutral... No more buying every poison ivy patch of undeveloped land.
Instead, the town should divest and encourage economic development of public land.
4/18/2020 4:52 PM
15 No more land sold for more housing developments enough of increasing brewsters population 4/17/2020 3:16 PM
16 less concrete and congestion 4/17/2020 11:28 AM
17 Protection of existing town owned land, like the land on Millstone Rd.4/17/2020 10:09 AM
18 Open Space Trust Fund and encouraging endowment funds for maintenance with gifted spaces 4/17/2020 9:39 AM
19 Continued access to ponds and beaches for fishing 4/17/2020 8:56 AM
20 limiting use of pesticides and fertilizers that may run off or leach into conservation areas and
ponds
4/17/2020 8:29 AM
21 Off leash space for pet exercise 4/16/2020 2:24 PM
22 Conservation burial cemeteries 4/16/2020 11:25 AM
Cooperative
land
conservatio
n effort...
Zoning
that
encourages
open spa...
Conservatio
n
restriction
s/easeme...
Town
purchase of
land
Mandatory
dedication
of open
space by...
Other
(please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Cooperative land conservation efforts between government and non-profits
Zoning that encourages open space conservation
Conservation restrictions/easements (legal agreement between a landowner and a conservation organization that
permanently or for a stated period limits specified uses and development of the property to protect its natural and
scenic features)
Town purchase of land
Mandatory dedication of open space by developers
Other (please specify)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
3 / 82
23 Recognizing Captains Golf Course as open space 4/16/2020 11:05 AM
24 It is not appropriate for citizens to be forced into agreements of open space, but rather
encouraged instead of made law that developers or zoning has to be required open space
4/16/2020 7:14 AM
25 I don't know enough about mandatory dedication by developers or zoning to know if I favor
them or not
4/15/2020 9:31 PM
26 I support Open Space 4/15/2020 4:41 PM
27 Purchase of used homes for affordable housing instead of clearing large tracts of land.4/15/2020 3:20 PM
28 increase CPC funding percentage to purchase more land 4/13/2020 2:13 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
4 / 82
86.70%515
85.02%505
72.56%431
70.03%416
63.80%379
36.36%216
2.86%17
Q3 For preservation and protection not achieved through regulatory,
state/federal grants or other means listed in question 2, which of the
following would you support? (Check all that apply)
Answered: 594 Skipped: 6
Total Respondents: 594
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Land that is more suitable for Housing than Open Space protection, should be referred to the
Housing Trust for consideration ex. Paul Hush Way Habitat project
4/30/2020 3:41 PM
2 Reducing beach parking lot paving 4/25/2020 1:05 PM
3 No further regulation is needed.4/24/2020 2:42 PM
4 Into the above, also include "passive recreation".4/23/2020 3:05 PM
5 zoning to limit house sizes to around the average for their neighborhood, to protect the feel of
open space in residential areas, strongest near the shoreline and other scenic views
4/22/2020 11:26 AM
6 We don'r need any more government interference in the economic decisions of property
owners.
4/18/2020 4:52 PM
7 Restrictions on spraying particularly under power lines 4/17/2020 10:55 AM
8 We support active recreation but cannot broadly check the box since we don’t support turf
fields
4/17/2020 9:39 AM
9 Land designated for remote public beach parking when adjacent parking lots on bay beaches
have been eroded beyond use.
4/17/2020 8:51 AM
10 See above 4/16/2020 11:25 AM
11 Reduce dog park plan to reasonable size to allow rest of large town owned parcel to be utilized
for other town purposes including potential park
4/16/2020 11:05 AM
12 Dog areas 4/16/2020 8:25 AM
13 Dog park 4/16/2020 8:18 AM
14 Prioritize land that could help the Town adapt to rising sea level 4/15/2020 9:31 PM
15 Pleasant Bay groundwatershed 4/15/2020 6:35 PM
16 I do not support the Town purchasing land for open space as they often do not leave it alone,
that is open and I disturbed. Open Sapce means just that....
4/15/2020 4:41 PM
17 For now expenditures should be kept to a minimum to allow residents/town to recoup from
Covid 19.
4/14/2020 4:05 PM
Maintaini
ng
existing
open...
Managemen
t of land
for
public...
Managemen
t of land
for plant
and...
Rehabilit
ation of
active
recrea...
Acquiring
new
conservat
ion land
Developin
g new
active
recrea...
Other
(please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Maintaining existing open space and conservation properties
Management of land for public water supply protection
Management of land for plant and wildlife habitat
Rehabilitation of active recreation areas
Acquiring new conservation land
Developing new active recreation areas
Other (please specify)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
5 / 82
Q4 What are the most important actions the Town should take in the next
5 years regarding open space and recreation opportunities and public
access?
Answered: 593 Skipped: 7
58.57%
345
30.56%
180
8.32%
49
2.55%
15
589
50.43%
296
33.73%
198
13.46%
79
2.39%
14
587
44.39%
261
35.20%
207
17.18%
101
3.23%
19
588
44.18%
258
33.73%
197
17.98%
105
4.11%
24
584
43.61%
256
36.80%
216
16.01%
94
3.58%
21
587
41.13%
241
39.59%
232
16.72%
98
2.56%
15
586
31.24%
184
29.03%
171
29.03%
171
10.70%
63
589
31.44%
183
42.10%
245
22.68%
132
3.78%
22
582
18.29%
107
33.33%
195
32.14%
188
16.24%
95
585
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Put tire spikes at bike path crossings so the ding dongs walk their bikes across the street
instead of playing "who's gonna die today" by zipping across on their bikes.
6/11/2021 8:51 AM
2 Take back the beach open space. Need more “in season “ access and space on the sand, not
just from the tide line. All the way up to the green line. Must happen.
4/30/2020 8:43 AM
3 North-south bike trail expansion would be good or make a safe bike path along 6A to Dennis 4/29/2020 7:44 PM
4 Agricultural land must be preserved and those who tend it supported. We must also keep an
eye to beyond five years, especially in terms of land development. Once land is developed, it
is unlikely to be "undeveloped".
4/23/2020 3:05 PM
5 complete the Rte 6A sidewalk for pedestrians and cyclists from Brewster to Orleans 4/22/2020 11:26 AM
6 Although I thoroughly enjoy the biking possibilities around town and Cape Cod I don't feel the
need for expanded trails because what we have already is awesome and encouraged. We just
have to be vigilant in maintaining it.
4/22/2020 9:08 AM
7 Develope safe travel for bike and people on connecting roads ex. Rt.137 4/22/2020 8:56 AM
8 Build the Dog Park that was promised 7 years ago 4/21/2020 4:23 PM
9 sidewalks!!!4/21/2020 7:28 AM
10 If the bike path and pedestrian path programs succeed, then transportation becomes less
relevant
4/20/2020 2:55 PM
11 Maintain what we have 4/18/2020 8:19 AM
12 We need better sidewalks and bike routes esp on Rte 137 and 6A 4/17/2020 4:54 PM
Extremely Important Moderately Important Slightly Important
Not At All Important
Develop
a
town
wide
plan...
Expand
pedestr
ian
trai...
Provide
America
ns
with
Disa...
Improve
bicycli
ng
safe...
Expand
bike
trails
and...
Identif
y areas
of
impr...
Identif
y
locatio
ns f...
Provide
new
active
recr...
Researc
h
potenti
al w...
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
EXTREMELY
IMPORTANT
MODERATELY
IMPORTANT
SLIGHTLY
IMPORTANT
NOT AT ALL
IMPORTANT
TOTAL
Develop a town wide plan that includes all existing trails
and sidewalks, potential areas for expansion, trail
connections, and links to key recreation areas and bay
beaches
Expand pedestrian trails and paths for recreation and
transportation throughout town
Provide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access to
existing fields and facilities
Improve bicycling safety and information
Expand bike trails and paths for recreation and
transportation throughout town
Identify areas of improvement for existing trails and
sidewalks such as signage, safety, and lighting
Identify locations for new facilities such as, a
community pool, pickleball, volleyball, and basketball
courts
Provide new active recreation opportunities (seasonal
and year-round), including those for youth
Research potential ways to provide transportation to
recreation areas
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
6 / 82
13 indoor pool and indoor recreation for long winters 4/17/2020 2:07 PM
14 Ocean access points for boating ramps 4/17/2020 12:00 PM
15 Consider pedestrian safety for all road improvements ie shoulders 4/17/2020 10:55 AM
16 Community pool seems not important is an area with so many natural swimming areas.4/17/2020 9:39 AM
17 More access for disabled people to all recreational areas 4/17/2020 9:32 AM
18 appropriate seating and walkable access to all for those whose mobility is compromised.4/17/2020 9:15 AM
19 install a large wall for 1 person soccer ball kicking or tennis.4/17/2020 9:05 AM
20 Again, this survey seems to completly ignore issues concerning fishing thye ponds and
beaches of Brewster, something smells fishy
4/17/2020 8:56 AM
21 Keep access to all public beaches open, even after parking lots have eroded. - There is a need
for remote beach parking.
4/17/2020 8:51 AM
22 More sidewalks! I live off 124 and feel like I’m taking my life in hands walking on the side of
the road
4/17/2020 8:11 AM
23 Expand sidewalks to East Brewster to Orleans on 6A 4/17/2020 7:21 AM
24 Dog park 4/16/2020 2:24 PM
25 Please build a community pool!4/16/2020 12:43 PM
26 Recognize golf as recreation and financial support if needed 4/16/2020 11:05 AM
27 DOG PARK!!!4/16/2020 8:53 AM
28 Dog walking areas 4/16/2020 8:25 AM
29 We’ve done enough. stop already 4/15/2020 8:15 PM
30 Dedicated bike lanes!! Many people bike on the roads in the summer and it is extremely
dangerous.
4/15/2020 7:30 PM
31 I do not know if there is a need for more recreational opportuities 4/15/2020 5:16 PM
32 Provide ADA access wherever reasonable 4/15/2020 3:10 PM
33 These questions duplicate the many similar surveys that have been sent out over the last
several years. It's as though you're trying again to get the answer you want. As for trails and
the like, I would suggest reveiwing again the sidewalk projects and how what was put in was
great but has some significant gaps. For example, it's extemely unfortunate that the sidewalk
from Drummer Boy didn't include some sort of walkway on the side of 6A over the marsh to
lower road so that those who park at Drummer Boy could either go to Wing Island or Paines
Creek. For a cheap way to increase access to recreational areas, the Town should consider
signage improvements - what tells the public about the ability to park at Drummer Boy and go
out to Wing Island - the signage at the start of the trail is terrible. There is no signage at the
island next to Kate's Ice Cream, on the split rail fences, that indicate people can park there
(because they do and the town doesn't prevent it).
4/15/2020 3:08 PM
34 All are nice when the town and its' people are back on their feet. I would like to see more
businesses to help defray our taxes before you go spending it.
4/14/2020 4:05 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
7 / 82
Q5 How often do you visit the following Conservation Areas?
Answered: 531 Skipped: 69
Bakers Pond
Betty’s Curve
at Route 6a ...
Calf Field Pond
Drummer Boy
Park
Eagle Point
Hawk’s Nest
F
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
8 / 82
Farm
Indian Springs
John and
Kristi Hay...
Lee Baldwin
Trail
Long Pond
Woodlands
Mothers
Bog/Meetingh...
Punkhorn
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
9 / 82
Punkhorn
Parklands
Quivett Marsh
Quivett Marsh
Vista
Read Kingsbury
Sheep Pond
Woodlands
Spruce Hill
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
10 / 82
Frequently (more than 12 times a year)Regularly (6-12 times a year)
Occasionally (1-6 times a year)Never Unaware of area
Stony Brook
Grist...
White Gate Farm
Wing Island
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
11 / 82
4.64%
23
6.45%
32
30.24%
150
35.28%
175
23.39%
116
496
8.20%
41
7.00%
35
21.80%
109
30.60%
153
32.40%
162
500
1.39%
7
2.97%
15
12.67%
64
29.90%
151
53.07%
268
505
16.92%
89
27.19%
143
48.67%
256
6.46%
34
0.76%
4
526
7.52%
38
7.72%
39
24.55%
124
20.00%
101
40.20%
203
505
2.16%
11
5.50%
28
19.45%
99
24.95%
127
47.94%
244
509
0.79%
4
2.76%
14
21.46%
109
25.20%
128
49.80%
253
508
4.72%
24
8.25%
42
27.31%
139
21.41%
109
38.31%
195
509
3.75%
19
8.10%
41
20.16%
102
23.72%
120
44.27%
224
506
4.92%
25
8.07%
41
27.95%
142
26.38%
134
32.68%
166
508
3.14%
16
2.75%
14
15.49%
79
28.43%
145
50.20%
256
510
16.48%
86
16.48%
86
40.61%
212
17.82%
93
8.62%
45
522
11.09%
57
14.40%
74
33.66%
173
22.96%
118
17.90%
92
514
8.86%
45
13.78%
70
35.83%
182
22.64%
115
18.90%
96
508
0.20%
1
1.63%
8
6.30%
31
25.61%
126
66.26%
326
492
13.23%
68
11.09%
57
27.43%
141
25.88%
133
22.37%
115
514
7.33%
36
7.33%
36
20.16%
99
25.25%
124
39.92%
196
491
19.08%
99
28.52%
148
45.86%
238
5.78%
30
0.77%
4
519
0.20%
1
1.38%
7
8.48%
43
27.42%
139
62.52%
317
507
16.93%
87
18.09%
93
32.49%
167
15.56%
80
16.93%
87
514
FREQUENTLY (MORE
THAN 12 TIMES A
YEAR)
REGULARLY (6-
12 TIMES A
YEAR)
OCCASIONALLY (1-
6 TIMES A YEAR)
NEVER UNAWARE
OF AREA
TOTAL
Bakers Pond
Betty’s Curve at Route
6a and Lower Road
Calf Field Pond
Drummer Boy Park
Eagle Point
Hawk’s Nest Farm
Indian Springs
John and Kristi Hay
Trail
Lee Baldwin Trail
Long Pond Woodlands
Mothers
Bog/Meetinghouse
Road Woodlands
Punkhorn Parklands
Quivett Marsh
Quivett Marsh Vista
Read Kingsbury
Sheep Pond
Woodlands
Spruce Hill
Stony Brook Grist
Mill/Herring Run Area
White Gate Farm
Wing Island
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
12 / 82
Q6 How often do you visit the following Ponds?
Answered: 529 Skipped: 71
Elbow Pond
Long Pond Beach
Pine Pond
Schoolhouse
Pond
Seymour Pond
Sheep
P d/Fi h
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
13 / 82
2.38%
12
2.18%
11
17.46%
88
51.39%
259
26.59%
134
504
15.03%
78
14.26%
74
39.50%
205
26.78%
139
4.43%
23
519
1.59%
8
1.00%
5
9.96%
50
48.80%
245
38.65%
194
502
2.58%
13
4.37%
22
16.30%
82
47.32%
238
29.42%
148
503
9.49%
48
7.31%
37
29.64%
150
38.14%
193
15.42%
78
506
25.24%
131
15.61%
81
32.37%
168
20.23%
105
6.55%
34
519
4.92%
25
7.48%
38
26.18%
133
46.46%
236
14.96%
76
508
8.79%
45
15.43%
79
34.96%
179
30.08%
154
10.74%
55
512
3.72%
19
6.85%
35
21.33%
109
43.84%
224
24.27%
124
511
Frequently (more than 12 times a year)Regularly (6-12 times a year)
Occasionally (1-6 times a year)Never Unaware of area
Pond/Fisherm...
Slough Pond
Upper Mill
Pond Landing
Walkers Pond
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
FREQUENTLY (MORE
THAN 12 TIMES A YEAR)
REGULARLY (6-12
TIMES A YEAR)
OCCASIONALLY (1-6
TIMES A YEAR)
NEVER UNAWARE
OF AREA
TOTAL
Elbow Pond
Long Pond Beach
Pine Pond
Schoolhouse Pond
Seymour Pond
Sheep
Pond/Fishermans
Landing
Slough Pond
Upper Mill Pond
Landing
Walkers Pond
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
14 / 82
Q7 How often do you visit the following Recreation Areas?
Answered: 530 Skipped: 70
Cape Cod Rail
Trail
Captains golf
course
Eddy School
playground
Freeman’s Way
athletic fields
Gages baseball
field behind...
Gary Robbins
Littl L
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
15 / 82
Frequently (more than 12 times a year)Regularly (6-12 times a year)
Occasionally (1-6 times a year)Never Unaware of area
Little Leagu...
Stony Brook
School...
Tennis courts
(Underpass R...
Town Hall ball
fields
Whitecaps ball
field at...
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
16 / 82
62.12%
328
16.67%
88
17.99%
95
3.22%
17
0.00%
0
528
13.76%
71
6.20%
32
21.12%
109
57.36%
296
1.55%
8
516
14.62%
75
8.38%
43
22.03%
113
53.22%
273
1.75%
9
513
11.71%
61
5.76%
30
23.22%
121
55.85%
291
3.45%
18
521
1.75%
9
3.11%
16
9.71%
50
75.15%
387
10.29%
53
515
6.43%
33
5.07%
26
14.04%
72
68.03%
349
6.43%
33
513
13.26%
68
8.97%
46
23.59%
121
51.66%
265
2.53%
13
513
13.71%
71
9.65%
50
19.69%
102
54.05%
280
2.90%
15
518
3.70%
19
5.07%
26
16.76%
86
71.93%
369
2.53%
13
513
13.29%
69
15.99%
83
37.76%
196
31.21%
162
1.73%
9
519
FREQUENTLY (MORE
THAN 12 TIMES A
YEAR)
REGULARLY (6-
12 TIMES A
YEAR)
OCCASIONALLY
(1-6 TIMES A
YEAR)
NEVER UNAWARE
OF AREA
TOTAL
Cape Cod Rail Trail
Captains golf course
Eddy School playground
Freeman’s Way athletic
fields
Gages baseball field
behind Council on Aging
Gary Robbins Little
League field at Eddy
Elementary
Stony Brook School
playground
Tennis courts (Underpass
Road at Stonybrook
School)
Town Hall ball fields
Whitecaps ball field at
Stonybrook School
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
17 / 82
Q8 In planning for future open space and recreation, how important are the
following to you?
Answered: 532 Skipped: 68
Extremely Important Moderately Important Slightly Important
Not At All Important
Acce
ssib
le
w...
Amph
ithe
ater
Badm
into
n
Base
ball
/sof
t...
Bask
etba
ll
c...
Benc
hes
alon
g...
Benc
hes
alon
g...
Biki
ng
Bird
and
wild
l...
Boat
ing
(pow
er)
Boat
ing
(sai
l...
Bocc
e
Cano
eing
,
k...
Cape
Cod
Rail
T...
Comm
unit
y
g...
Cons
erva
tion
v...
Cros
s
coun
t...
Curl
ing
Danc
e
clas
s...
Dog
park
(off
-...
Dog/
pet
walk
i...
Farm
ers
mark
et
Fish
ing
Fitn
ess
clas
s...
Fitn
ess
trai
ls
Fore
st
bath
ing
Fris
bee
golf
c...
Gard
ens,
publ
i...
Ga
er
g
m
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
18 / 82
72.08%
382
21.70%
115
5.09%
27
1.13%
6
530
2.33%
12
20.78%
107
43.50%
224
33.40%
172
515
1.55%
8
8.70%
45
32.11%
166
57.64%
298
517
16.48%
86
25.10%
131
33.52%
175
24.90%
130
522
12.52%
65
29.09%
151
29.87%
155
28.52%
148
519
14.34%
75
33.08%
173
34.42%
180
18.16%
95
523
18.25%
96
34.22%
180
36.12%
190
11.41%
60
526
59.01%
311
25.24%
133
12.33%
65
3.42%
18
527
39.31%
206
37.60%
197
17.56%
92
5.53%
29
524
12.86%
67
13.24%
69
28.02%
146
45.87%
239
521
20.19%
105
29.62%
154
28.27%
147
21.92%
114
520
4.35%
22
15.22%
77
34.39%
174
46.05%
233
506
41.63%
219
32.89%
173
17.87%
94
7.60%
40
526
46.20%
243
29.85%
157
13.88%
73
10.08%
53
526
26.34%
138
37.21%
195
23.85%
125
12.60%
66
524
30.12%
156
39.96%
207
22.59%
117
7.34%
38
518
8.85%
46
20.19%
105
30.38%
158
40.58%
211
520
1.96%
10
7.83%
40
23.09%
118
67.12%
343
511
8.61%
44
17.81%
91
31.90%
163
41.68%
213
511
30.21%
158
19.12%
100
20.27%
106
30.40%
159
523
37.40%
196
22.90%
120
17.18%
90
22.52%
118
524
53.61%
282
33.46%
176
9.70%
51
3.23%
17
526
35.56%
186
29.25%
153
17.40%
91
17.78%
93
523
23.28%
122
35.88%
188
25.38%
133
15.46%
81
524
23.61%
123
38.77%
202
25.72%
134
11.90%
62
521
11.62%
58
15.63%
78
27.05%
135
45.69%
228
499
3.31%
17
13.23%
68
26.46%
136
57.00%
293
514
26.30%
137
33.59%
175
29.75%
155
10.36%
54
521
12.82%
66
23.11%
119
33.20%
171
30.87%
159
515
24.47%
127
18.50%
96
17.53%
91
39.50%
205
519
22.16%
115
19.85%
103
19.27%
100
38.73%
201
519
59.42%
309
27.69%
144
9.04%
47
3.85%
20
520
39.23%
204
39.42%
205
19.42%
101
1.92%
10
520
5.84%19.26%35.80%39.11%
EXTREMELY
IMPORTANT
MODERATELY
IMPORTANT
SLIGHTLY
IMPORTANT
NOT AT ALL
IMPORTANT
TOTAL
Accessible walking trails
Amphitheater
Badminton
Baseball/softball fields
Basketball courts
Benches along sidewalks
Benches along trails
Biking
Bird and wildlife watching
Boating (power)
Boating (sailing)
Bocce
Canoeing, kayaking, or SUP-boarding
Cape Cod Rail Trail extension to beach
Community gardening
Conservation volunteering
Cross country skiing
Curling
Dance classes/programs
Dog park (off-leash)
Dog/pet walking areas
Farmers market
Fishing
Fitness classes (adults)
Fitness trails
Forest bathing
Frisbee golf course
Gardens, public/botanical
Gathering mushrooms/berries
Golf course
Golf driving range
Herring run
Historic site interpretation (markers
signage)
Horseback riding areas
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
19 / 82
30 99 184 201 514
1.37%
7
11.96%
61
32.94%
168
53.73%
274
510
6.84%
35
6.84%
35
16.02%
82
70.31%
360
512
8.81%
45
17.22%
88
25.44%
130
48.53%
248
511
13.87%
71
30.47%
156
34.57%
177
21.09%
108
512
16.89%
88
30.13%
157
29.56%
154
23.42%
122
521
2.17%
11
11.05%
56
28.01%
142
58.78%
298
507
25.34%
130
37.82%
194
25.34%
130
11.50%
59
513
10.64%
55
24.76%
128
32.88%
170
31.72%
164
517
9.90%
51
25.83%
133
29.71%
153
34.56%
178
515
14.68%
75
28.18%
144
27.59%
141
29.55%
151
511
8.32%
43
17.79%
92
33.08%
171
40.81%
211
517
15.53%
80
21.94%
113
27.18%
140
35.34%
182
515
24.71%
126
43.53%
222
23.53%
120
8.24%
42
510
5.09%
26
16.05%
82
35.03%
179
43.84%
224
511
40.74%
209
31.97%
164
17.35%
89
9.94%
51
513
16.63%
86
28.24%
146
32.88%
170
22.24%
115
517
22.44%
116
32.88%
170
24.37%
126
20.31%
105
517
25.44%
131
33.79%
174
26.21%
135
14.56%
75
515
54.11%
283
26.00%
136
13.96%
73
5.93%
31
523
3.32%
17
18.75%
96
30.47%
156
47.46%
243
512
16.37%
84
28.46%
146
28.65%
147
26.51%
136
513
16.21%
83
30.47%
156
27.54%
141
25.78%
132
512
5.86%
30
14.45%
74
26.95%
138
52.73%
270
512
29.17%
152
43.95%
229
19.77%
103
7.10%
37
521
13.46%
70
31.35%
163
28.65%
149
26.54%
138
520
35.85%
185
23.26%
120
20.54%
106
20.35%
105
516
30.12%
156
20.08%
104
19.11%
99
30.69%
159
518
49.23%
255
28.96%
150
14.29%
74
7.53%
39
518
19.10%
98
23.78%
122
23.98%
123
33.14%
170
513
32.49%
166
31.31%
160
14.87%
76
21.33%
109
511
28.71%
147
30.66%
157
18.95%
97
21.68%
111
512
21.17%
109
29.13%
150
24.66%
127
25.05%
129
515
7.13%
36
26.53%
134
31.88%
161
34.46%
174
505
73.03%
379
20.62%
107
4.43%
23
1.93%
10
519
Horseshoes
Hunting areas
Indoor track
Intergenerational programs
Kayak storage at public beaches
Labyrinth
Nature study
Night-lighted facilities
Outdoor fitness equipment
Outdoor track
Personal fitness coaching
Pickleball courts
Picnic areas
Ping pong and table tennis
Playgrounds
Quiet space for meditation/yoga/tai-chi
Sailing programs
Seniors, gentle exercise
Sidewalks
Skateboarding
Soccer fields
Softball fields and programs
Space to listen to music, use
electronic devices in groups
Summer concerts outdoors
Summer movies outdoors
Swimming lessons
Swimming, indoor pool
Swimming, pond
T-ball programs
Teen programs
Tennis courts
Trail running
Volleyball
Walking/hiking
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
20 / 82
42.69%
222
31.73%
165
13.65%
71
11.92%
62
520
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Splash pad 6/12/2021 10:12 PM
2 Any thing that does not stress the town in trying to maintain it 5/6/2020 6:34 AM
3 open grass field maintained for informal intergenerational family games - kicking ball, frisbee,
cricket, batting practice, touch football - whatever people like
4/22/2020 12:12 PM
4 indoor recreation for all ages during winter 4/20/2020 10:29 AM
5 indoor spaces for kids with disabilities - pool, gym 4/18/2020 8:42 AM
6 community center 4/17/2020 4:59 PM
7 Many items I think we already have enough of like playgrounds, soccer & ballfield, etc.
vollyball, table tennis, and badminton might be nice.
4/17/2020 12:25 PM
8 Disk golf yes 4/17/2020 12:11 PM
9 Shuffleboard courts 4/17/2020 9:49 AM
10 year round trash containers, for refuse/dog poop with pick up scheduled 4/17/2020 9:30 AM
11 Lacrosse fields for youth, boys and girls 4/17/2020 8:29 AM
12 The residents of East Brewster need a safer way to access the Cape Rail Trail Bike Path.
Sidewalks need to be extended from Robinwood to the Orleans border.
4/17/2020 7:27 AM
13 trails that allow dogs (with responsible owners)4/16/2020 2:39 PM
14 Please build a pool with a retractable roof. Collaborate with Orleans if necessary.4/16/2020 12:50 PM
15 Dog Park 4/16/2020 10:04 AM
16 Dog friendly areas 4/16/2020 8:32 AM
17 Dog Park !!!!! (LONG overdue)4/16/2020 8:18 AM
18 safe ramps for launching kayaks at ponds and beaches 4/16/2020 8:09 AM
19 Tick Infestation has a serious effect on my answers 4/16/2020 7:43 AM
20 Sidewalks on Rt 137!!!!!!!4/15/2020 7:48 PM
21 Snowshoeing--love it!4/15/2020 7:39 PM
22 Bathrooms at town beaches 4/15/2020 5:31 PM
23 Wilderness Camping 4/15/2020 2:31 PM
24 No major expenditures and financed without raising taxes - live within our means.4/14/2020 4:38 PM
Water bottle filling stations/fountains
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
21 / 82
51.61%273
22.12%117
9.83%52
6.81%36
9.64%51
Q9 How close is the closest open space or recreation facility to your
home? (Please choose one)
Answered: 529 Skipped: 71
TOTAL 529
Within 1/4
mile (5-10
minute walk)
1/4 to 1/2
mile (10-15
minute walk)
1/2 to 3/4
mile (15-20
minute walk)
3/4 to 1
mile (20-25
minute walk)
More than 1
mile
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Within 1/4 mile (5-10 minute walk)
1/4 to 1/2 mile (10-15 minute walk)
1/2 to 3/4 mile (15-20 minute walk)
3/4 to 1 mile (20-25 minute walk)
More than 1 mile
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
22 / 82
44.34%235
42.26%224
12.08%64
1.32%7
Q10 How do you usually get to open space or recreation facilities? (Please
choose one)
Answered: 530 Skipped: 70
TOTAL 530
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 drive to parking lot then walk to open space 4/20/2020 7:44 PM
2 Depends where we are going...use all three 4/19/2020 9:15 AM
3 I never go to these areas. When I need exercise, I rake or mow my yard.4/18/2020 4:57 PM
4 Run 4/17/2020 6:16 PM
5 Would like Brewster residents to have free access to Nickerson parking 4/17/2020 9:49 AM
6 There was no space to say this earlier: Betty's Curve is not a conservation area destination.
It's an oversized traffic island that the Town bought for a large amount of money and has done
nothing with it but spend large amount of money on plans that have gone no where. It is used
for parking for Paines Creek with no signage. Such a waste.
4/15/2020 3:27 PM
7 All of the above. Depends which one I am going to.4/15/2020 2:12 PM
Walk Vehicle Bike Other (please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Walk
Vehicle
Bike
Other (please specify)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
23 / 82
42.61%219
17.12%88
22.37%115
17.90%92
Q11 How often do you bike? (Choose one)
Answered: 514 Skipped: 86
TOTAL 514
Frequently
[more than 12
times a year]
Regularly [6-12
times a year]
Occasionally
[1-6 times a
year]
Never
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Frequently [more than 12 times a year]
Regularly [6-12 times a year]
Occasionally [1-6 times a year]
Never
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
24 / 82
39.29%189
6.03%29
7.69%37
90.64%436
22.66%109
13.10%63
Q12 What are your favorite biking destinations? (Check all that apply)
Answered: 481 Skipped: 119
Total Respondents: 481
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Punkhorn Trails 6/16/2021 8:07 AM
2 don't bike 6/15/2021 12:49 PM
3 Post office 6/15/2021 11:37 AM
4 Errands 6/14/2021 8:25 PM
5 Na 6/14/2021 6:50 PM
6 CCRT as well as streets.6/13/2021 4:59 PM
7 None 6/12/2021 7:51 AM
8 none 6/10/2021 9:02 PM
9 Don’t bike 6/10/2021 5:42 PM
10 vistas 5/3/2020 7:15 PM
11 ponds 4/26/2020 5:53 PM
12 none 4/24/2020 2:50 PM
13 Parks, Ponds, Walking trails, Work, Stores and restaurants not on 6A 4/23/2020 3:46 PM
14 it is impossible - dangerous to ride on the roads in Brews 4/22/2020 8:58 PM
15 other towns 4/22/2020 4:27 PM
16 Don't bike 4/22/2020 1:42 PM
17 Nickerson Park, Chatham, Eastham, Harwich, Dennis (but don't need a "destination" for biking,
just a nice place to bike!)
4/22/2020 12:21 PM
18 restof Cape 4/22/2020 12:13 PM
19 getting to work -but hard with dangerous roads 4/22/2020 10:24 AM
20 Don't bike 4/22/2020 9:59 AM
21 Nickerson State Park 4/22/2020 9:18 AM
22 scenic routes along roads that have low traffic 4/22/2020 7:39 AM
23 don't bike 4/20/2020 7:45 PM
24 ponds, Nickerson, other towns via railtrail 4/20/2020 4:27 PM
25 Ponds 4/20/2020 2:29 PM
26 Neighboring towns 4/20/2020 12:54 PM
27 I do not bike 4/20/2020 9:46 AM
28 Other trails & back roads 4/19/2020 9:53 AM
29 Backroads and trails 4/19/2020 9:17 AM
30 Don’t bike much 4/18/2020 10:12 PM
Beaches Ball fields Playgrounds Cape Cod
Rail Trail
Stores/rest
aurants on
Route 6A
Other
(please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Beaches
Ball fields
Playgrounds
Cape Cod Rail Trail
Stores/restaurants on Route 6A
Other (please specify)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
25 / 82
31 I don't bike.4/18/2020 4:59 PM
32 just general wandering 4/18/2020 12:46 PM
33 Nickeraon 4/18/2020 9:13 AM
34 I don't ride to places since it's so dangerous on our roads! I stick to the rail trail 4/17/2020 5:01 PM
35 Nickerson State Park 4/17/2020 4:22 PM
36 local roads 4/17/2020 12:13 PM
37 none 4/17/2020 11:39 AM
38 My children use bikes to get to work and friend's houses 4/17/2020 10:18 AM
39 Cape Cod Baseball league 4/17/2020 9:51 AM
40 Parks ie punkhorn, Nickerson 4/17/2020 9:32 AM
41 Tennis Courts 4/17/2020 9:23 AM
42 Nickerson State Park 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
43 Neighborhood, Nickerson 4/17/2020 8:43 AM
44 Ponds 4/17/2020 8:35 AM
45 Nickerson State Park 4/17/2020 8:30 AM
46 pickleball courts 4/17/2020 8:20 AM
47 tennis courts 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
48 post office, vernal pols 4/16/2020 11:04 AM
49 Nickerson 4/16/2020 10:24 AM
50 do not bike 4/16/2020 9:44 AM
51 About the streets in my neighborhood and surrounding area 4/16/2020 9:14 AM
52 Places to get in a good long bike ride 4/16/2020 7:41 AM
53 Ponds, Other towns 4/15/2020 5:57 PM
54 for pleasure & exercise 4/15/2020 3:48 PM
55 Open space 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
56 Wellfleet or Yarmouth, mostly on the roads for exercise and enjoyment 4/15/2020 2:25 PM
57 Visit other towns along the Rail Trail. Example, Biking up to the Cape Cod National Seashore
or to Chatham.
4/15/2020 2:15 PM
58 Nickerson 4/15/2020 1:05 PM
59 along main st in brewster, which is not safe where i live 4/15/2020 8:19 AM
60 Freemans Way. Bike trails get too busy with pedestriams and dogs.4/14/2020 4:41 PM
61 Around home 4/14/2020 4:30 PM
62 we bike the power lines and off road trails too 4/14/2020 3:41 PM
63 No bike 4/13/2020 1:57 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
26 / 82
31.43%160
54.81%279
70.73%360
21.81%111
10.22%52
17.09%87
Q13 What might prevent you from biking around Brewster? (Check all that
apply)
Answered: 509 Skipped: 91
Total Respondents: 509
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 I think we have adequate biking trails and access 6/23/2021 7:38 AM
2 Difficult access to rail trail from West Brewster 6/15/2021 10:01 PM
3 No desired destination that cannot already be accessed via bike path 6/15/2021 9:43 AM
4 I am unable to bike.6/14/2021 2:06 PM
5 Don’t bike 6/10/2021 5:43 PM
6 Nothing prevents me 6/10/2021 5:01 PM
7 distracted drivers 5/10/2020 8:42 PM
8 Traffic 5/4/2020 7:41 AM
9 start out on a narrow busy road, so safety keeps me from biking regularly. no room for
sidewalks
5/3/2020 12:40 PM
10 Dont have a working bike 5/2/2020 9:28 AM
11 people going to fast on rail trail, not sharing spaces 4/30/2020 3:49 PM
12 Riding on sidewalks dangerous to pedestrians!4/30/2020 10:28 AM
13 Cars are a little scary.4/27/2020 3:11 PM
14 Nothing prevents me from biking. This is a question slanted towards more sidewalks and
urbanization, which we do not need.
4/27/2020 1:50 PM
15 Safety 4/23/2020 3:46 PM
16 reduce traffic speed to MAXIMUM of 30mph everywhere 4/22/2020 8:58 PM
17 bike trail too crowded; bikers do not follow safety rules 4/22/2020 4:27 PM
18 Feel sidewalks are for pedestrians, need alternate trail 4/22/2020 3:41 PM
19 Do not like to bike 4/22/2020 1:42 PM
20 I don’t bike.4/22/2020 12:30 PM
21 flat tire 4/22/2020 12:21 PM
22 nothing 4/22/2020 10:15 AM
23 Unable to bike 4/22/2020 9:59 AM
24 B iking in Brewster is a superb experience 4/22/2020 9:20 AM
25 No shoulder on many roads make it difficult to ride your bicycle or walk in many side roads.
The sidewalk is great but bike riders now have to ride kn it because it is dangerous to ride on
6a with the granite slabs in the sidewalks.
4/21/2020 5:32 PM
26 want to ride on the sidewalks. bike lanes too dangerous 4/21/2020 1:23 PM
27 My own health 4/21/2020 12:06 PM
Need more
sidewalks
No bike
lanes
Crowded
roads
Lack of
recreationa
l routes
Lack of
bike racks
Other
(please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Need more sidewalks
No bike lanes
Crowded roads
Lack of recreational routes
Lack of bike racks
Other (please specify)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
27 / 82
28 My age 4/21/2020 11:08 AM
29 Bad knees and back 4/21/2020 10:27 AM
30 don't bike anymore 4/20/2020 4:19 PM
31 highway crossingx 4/20/2020 1:13 PM
32 traffic 4/20/2020 12:38 PM
33 physically challenging 4/20/2020 11:49 AM
34 No bike 4/20/2020 11:27 AM
35 Age 4/20/2020 10:25 AM
36 Back fusion 4/20/2020 9:47 AM
37 Lack of public restrooms 4/19/2020 9:17 AM
38 I don't bike.. Just how jury-rigged is this survey to get responses that pols will use to increase
taxes to pay for junk projects??
4/18/2020 4:59 PM
39 access to 3 wheeled bike for child with disabilities 4/18/2020 8:45 AM
40 I live off busy and dangerous rte. 137 so can't bike from home.4/18/2020 8:35 AM
41 we maybe need a slight adjustmane to be connected to the rail trail. I dont think bike lanes
work. I dont think riding on the sidewalk is appropriate. Maybe a connection to CCRT from
Millstone
4/18/2020 8:31 AM
42 Traffic laws not enforced 4/17/2020 11:08 PM
43 Older drivers and out of towners who don't know where they are going. Don't see me even in
high vis gear
4/17/2020 5:01 PM
44 Dogs 4/17/2020 2:28 PM
45 Safety and bike trail is enough 4/17/2020 12:25 PM
46 PLEASE put a bike path on 137. PLEASE. It would help various neighborhoods get access to
the rail trail without having to drive under a mile to park.
4/17/2020 12:23 PM
47 Dangerous and skinny roads should be one-way with a two-way bike lane 4/17/2020 11:47 AM
48 safety 4/17/2020 11:39 AM
49 6A has some areas dangerous to bikers 4/17/2020 9:51 AM
50 more enforcement of speed limits 4/17/2020 9:32 AM
51 Connection from AP Newcomb to side walks. Whole section of brewster left without sidewalks!4/17/2020 9:18 AM
52 bike path over-crowded 4/17/2020 9:14 AM
53 Rude drivers 4/17/2020 9:06 AM
54 Narrow roadways 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
55 No impediments 4/17/2020 8:35 AM
56 Age 4/17/2020 8:28 AM
57 It's not safe to bike along 6A where the bike trail has gaps.4/17/2020 8:21 AM
58 Sidewalk on 6A needs to be extended to Orleans so residents of East Brewster can access
the Cape Cod Rail Trail bike path.
4/17/2020 7:30 AM
59 Physical restriction 4/16/2020 9:39 PM
60 unsafe to ride on 6A 4/16/2020 3:51 PM
61 am concerned about bike lane safety 4/16/2020 11:04 AM
62 nothing 4/16/2020 10:54 AM
63 Crosby Beach should be accessible via bike path not road 4/16/2020 10:24 AM
64 lack of interest in this activity 4/16/2020 10:14 AM
65 physical condition 4/16/2020 9:44 AM
66 age 4/16/2020 8:56 AM
67 physical limitations prevent me from biking anymore.4/16/2020 8:48 AM
68 lack of desire 4/16/2020 8:43 AM
69 Other bikers who no longer alert you when passing from behind you on the left 4/16/2020 8:30 AM
70 do not own a bike 4/16/2020 8:10 AM
71 Dangerous traffic (visitors) on too small roads 4/16/2020 7:41 AM
72 No prevention plenty of spots 4/16/2020 7:26 AM
73 Lack of lighting on roads 4/16/2020 7:10 AM
74 poor balance 4/16/2020 6:58 AM
75 N/A 4/16/2020 6:03 AM
76 Narrow roads and fast traffic speed limits, lack of crosswalk crossing signals on 6A 4/16/2020 12:01 AM
77 No safe shoulder on road 4/15/2020 7:19 PM
78 Narrow road shoulders, rumble strips on roads 4/15/2020 5:57 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
28 / 82
79 Loss of balance 4/15/2020 5:43 PM
80 My age 4/15/2020 4:49 PM
81 Don’t bike 4/15/2020 4:30 PM
82 I am too old to bike 4/15/2020 2:42 PM
83 past it! Alas 4/15/2020 2:36 PM
84 Hills!4/15/2020 2:34 PM
85 Narrow roads with no shoulder 4/15/2020 2:31 PM
86 safe access to CCRT from West Brewster. Rte 6A/Stony Brook Rd too narrow/busy 4/15/2020 12:08 PM
87 No bike 4/13/2020 1:58 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
29 / 82
Q14 Can you identify any destinations that you wish to reach by bike, but
cannot? Please list the route, and why it is difficult.
Answered: 245 Skipped: 355
#RESPONSES DATE
1 None 6/23/2021 7:38 AM
2 M/A 6/16/2021 9:18 PM
3 My house to rail trail @137 via Stoney Brook to Tubman. Vehicles exceeding speed limit. It’s
actually safer to travel 6A.
6/15/2021 10:01 PM
4 na 6/15/2021 12:50 PM
5 No 6/15/2021 11:37 AM
6 Access to bike trail on 137 6/14/2021 9:59 PM
7 I live within a mile of the CCRT, but can't bike there because there is no sidewalk on Millstone 6/14/2021 7:22 PM
8 Difficult to get to Bay beaches. Need better connections to neighborhoods.6/14/2021 6:57 PM
9 I can’t get anywhere safely from my house off Satucket Rd. because of lack of bike lanes and
high speed traffic
6/13/2021 4:59 PM
10 I'm on 137 by old exit 11 so I can't get anywhere via bike with out risking my life on 137 6/12/2021 10:13 PM
11 no 6/12/2021 2:53 PM
12 Library no sidewalk 6/12/2021 10:40 AM
13 6A STORES - DANGEROUS!6/12/2021 10:30 AM
14 Linnell Landing, Paine’s Creek, Quivett Marsh 6/12/2021 7:52 AM
15 Areas on east side of 6A. The sidewalk ends at Robinwood.6/12/2021 6:57 AM
16 No safe way to get to bike trail from 137 6/11/2021 9:10 AM
17 no.6/11/2021 8:58 AM
18 none 6/10/2021 9:03 PM
19 Slough Road has poor shoulders and lots of curves. I live off Slough and would bike around
town, but don’t like to use Slough Road for biking.
6/10/2021 8:40 PM
20 No 6/10/2021 5:43 PM
21 Bike path gets you almost everywhere, Tubman road is a little scary when biking, should not
be designated bike route
6/10/2021 5:41 PM
22 I need to get on Tubman Road to go anywhere, and it is not safe between 6A and route 124 5/10/2020 8:42 PM
23 Red Top Road to Cape Cod Rail Trail - currently would need to bike along narrow roads with
fast cars.
5/9/2020 1:53 PM
24 Bay. Traffic on 6A makes biking unsafe.5/7/2020 4:01 PM
25 124, 137, 6A all need connection for foot and bike traffic.5/6/2020 11:45 PM
26 Bay beaches 5/6/2020 4:34 PM
27 I live on rte 28. And would never bike down that. I’d like to see bike lanes or road ways
devouted to bikes only. New connections off the bike trail and new bike trails connecting it
5/6/2020 6:37 AM
28 Breakwater Beach. Too dangerous to ride bike on the road.5/5/2020 11:00 AM
29 137!!!!5/3/2020 7:15 PM
30 No 5/2/2020 9:28 AM
31 6A 5/1/2020 11:40 AM
32 Would be great to have safe access to bike trail from 6A and 137 intersection 4/30/2020 10:28 AM
33 anywhere going west on 6 A toward Dennis from Tubman road, to the Nat Hist museum or
Drummer Boy Park, for example.. no bike lane on 6A.
4/29/2020 7:55 PM
34 Rail Trail. 6A. Linnell Landing.4/29/2020 9:32 AM
35 No 4/28/2020 2:42 PM
36 The entire town is accessible by bike. You can bike on roads, bike paths, off-road opportunities
are everywhere between the State Park and the Punkhorn and the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
4/27/2020 1:50 PM
37 To the Brewster Ladies Library. 6A is dangerous on the stretch of the the Lemon Tree shopping
area. Vegetation that you can't see from the car actually comes out pretty far into the road
making it difficult to keep fully to the right (when heading towards Orleans)
4/26/2020 5:30 PM
38 Nature Center on Rt 6A 4/25/2020 1:13 PM
39 Route 137, no room for bikes.4/25/2020 12:54 AM
40 Any stores, banks, library all require. Riding on 6A. Not a good idea in the summer 4/24/2020 9:12 PM
41 no 4/24/2020 2:50 PM
42 Linnell Landing Beach. No bike path or bike lanes. Crowded roads 4/24/2020 9:18 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
30 / 82
43 I would love a safer route to the CC Rail Trail from where I live off of 6A on the western side of
Brewster. The sidewalks along Route 6A are wonderful, though I would prefer not to bicycle on
the sidewalk. The shoulder between the roadway and sidewalk curbing is narrow and cars often
get uncomfortably close to me.
4/23/2020 5:42 PM
44 Many places on 6A (even the library) can be treacherous. Lower Road can also be challenging,
especially just off 6A near the General Store. The Natural History Museum can be challenging.
4/23/2020 3:46 PM
45 Destinations that require time on 6A 4/23/2020 10:40 AM
46 I wish the sidewalks in west Brewster on 6A would have been extended to Dennis town line.
They begin at drummer boy park restricting all of us from AP Newcomb west from accessing
it.
4/23/2020 8:28 AM
47 Rail Trail & Beaches, public roads do not accommodate safe passage 4/23/2020 8:03 AM
48 No 4/22/2020 9:15 PM
49 any and all town roads - it is dangerous to ride on Town roads 4/22/2020 8:58 PM
50 Nauset Beach. 6A to Nauset Beach Road. Not enough safe biking areas along the way.4/22/2020 5:36 PM
51 don't bike 4/22/2020 4:30 PM
52 P'Town because no bike trail 4/22/2020 4:27 PM
53 tubman road to get to bike trail - do not feel it's safe to ride here with children 4/22/2020 4:09 PM
54 Brewster General Store area 4/22/2020 3:41 PM
55 None 4/22/2020 3:06 PM
56 No 4/22/2020 1:42 PM
57 Spruce Hill Beach from 6A. Trail is too rough and bumpy.4/22/2020 12:21 PM
58 Along major road such as 137, 124, 6A. Need Bike lanes.4/22/2020 10:47 AM
59 From home to bike path - Rt 137 and Millstone treacherous 4/22/2020 10:24 AM
60 FPBUU would have to travel on Route 124 north to 6A 4/22/2020 9:53 AM
61 Yes, punk horn 4/22/2020 8:20 AM
62 would like bike lanes on Route 137; 124;6A--would help to get places.4/22/2020 7:39 AM
63 Beaches- 6A is very dangerous 4/22/2020 5:57 AM
64 See previous comment 4/21/2020 5:32 PM
65 N/A 4/21/2020 2:39 PM
66 access to bike trail......live on Satucket...no walkways 4/21/2020 12:57 PM
67 beach from satucket to lower road 4/21/2020 12:40 PM
68 I'm not fond of riding on Rte 6a, but Millstone is generally fine. The hills can be a bit steep at
the end of a ride.
4/21/2020 12:06 PM
69 Anything along Rte 6A because there is too much traffic 4/21/2020 11:08 AM
70 In town. No bike lane, crowded roads.4/21/2020 9:38 AM
71 I would bike more to bookstores or restaurants on 6A but it is too dangerous on 6A 4/20/2020 7:57 PM
72 none 4/20/2020 7:46 PM
73 137 to rail trail. 137 is dangerous 4/20/2020 7:29 PM
74 Provincetown. the Rail Trail ends just after Marconi. I'm grateful for all the existing trail, but it
would be nice to see more. Chatham . . . at least many of the back roads are less traveled.
4/20/2020 4:27 PM
75 Getting from East Brewster to any of the beaches without crossing 6A. Easier to take bike trail
to Orleans beaches without having the cross 6A
4/20/2020 1:40 PM
76 along 6A 4/20/2020 1:32 PM
77 none 4/20/2020 1:13 PM
78 Brewster library, need to either ride 6a or 137 4/20/2020 12:54 PM
79 I do not bike 4/20/2020 12:51 PM
80 beach traffic on 6A 4/20/2020 12:38 PM
81 No 4/20/2020 12:28 PM
82 No 4/20/2020 12:10 PM
83 None 4/20/2020 12:10 PM
84 Golf course, beaches 4/20/2020 11:52 AM
85 no 4/20/2020 11:49 AM
86 Beach too many hills and too far away 4/20/2020 11:27 AM
87 Rte 6A. My access road is dangerously narrow!4/20/2020 11:09 AM
88 Getting down Millstone Road is very dangerous...for walkers ,bikers and cars!4/20/2020 10:48 AM
89 Beaches 4/20/2020 10:09 AM
90 Rail trail off Underpass - Traffic and competing with walkers on sidewalks 4/20/2020 10:06 AM
91 along route 6A - too much traffic moving too fast 4/20/2020 9:53 AM
92 To get to the rail trail by bike is unsafe on rt 137.4/20/2020 9:49 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
31 / 82
93 Spinal fusion 4/20/2020 9:47 AM
94 Rail trail 4/20/2020 9:43 AM
95 Route 137 & old long pond 4/19/2020 1:42 PM
96 Brewster Main Street shop areas, Bay beach access areas 4/19/2020 10:57 AM
97 Lack of sidewalks on 137, 134, to Orleans & Dennis etc.4/19/2020 9:53 AM
98 Freeman’s Field, would love to see it accessible by bike 4/19/2020 9:17 AM
99 Tubman Road 4/19/2020 9:05 AM
100 Milstone 4/18/2020 8:14 PM
101 Biking to Linnell or Crosby Beaches are challenging due to the narrow roads but I think I prefer
it to be narrow to prevent cars from traveling too quickly! Not sure what a good solution would
be. A bike lane along 6A might be nice but again, not sure it would be worth encroaching on
the lawns of the homeowners.
4/18/2020 6:38 PM
102 I bike along Rt 6A to reach an access point to the CCRT (usually Seaview) and "take my life in
my hands" every time I do it. Biking on the sidewalk to Nickerson is not a very useful option
either.
4/18/2020 5:07 PM
103 No.4/18/2020 4:59 PM
104 Rt. 6A - town line east to Betty's curve. no bike lane or sidewalk on a busy stretch of road.4/18/2020 12:46 PM
105 I'd like to bike to the General Store from West Brewster. The route would be from
Airline/Satucket Rd to Stony Brook Rd. to 6a. Too congested with cars and no bike lane.
4/18/2020 9:41 AM
106 The schools and the bike path. —no sidewalks or bike lines for safe road sharing 4/18/2020 9:13 AM
107 I would not want to bike along 6A, just not safe and sidewalks are not wide enough, nor safe
for both walkers and bike riders, road is not safe enough for bike riders eihter
4/18/2020 8:45 AM
108 It's dangerous to ride along Millstone Rd to get to the rail trail, or on Rt. 137 to get to the rail
trail on Underpass. It would be great to have a bike lane.
4/18/2020 8:38 AM
109 Cape Cod Rail Trail and Sheep Pond woodlands are 2 miles from me but would involve biking
on route 137 which is too dangerous. Many other opportunities for biking on dirt roads near me
but they all involve going on route 137 to reach them.
4/18/2020 8:35 AM
110 see above comment 4/18/2020 8:31 AM
111 Anywhere off Satucket rd, it's too dangerous to walk or ride a bike.4/18/2020 7:25 AM
112 Anything on 6A. Too dangerous with traffic.4/17/2020 11:08 PM
113 No bike lane or sidewalk on Freeman’s rd 4/17/2020 9:52 PM
114 Satucket road 4/17/2020 7:42 PM
115 West Brewster area no bike lanes 4/17/2020 6:18 PM
116 Route 137, 6A, I'd bike to Harwich on route 137. route 124 is pretty dangerous too 4/17/2020 5:01 PM
117 Library via 6A; Foster Square, Ace, Snowy Owl via 6A or Rail Trail and crossing 6A,4/17/2020 4:22 PM
118 want to be able to let kids bike to school but 137 is way too dangerous. Would also like to be
able to bike to rail trail.
4/17/2020 3:40 PM
119 Cape Cod rail trail at Tubman and Underpass from route 124...Tubman rd to underpass is one
of the most dangerous intersections and bit of rd to bike on together to the bike path, that rd
needs to be expanded someway to bike or even walk on to get to the bike trail. 124 to 137 to
underpass is just as dangerous and could use a sidewalk and bike lane.i don’t get why people
extend Their property to the very edge of route 137 from 6a to Underpass. So dangerous to
walk or jog or bike and 124 too. More sidewalks all in the what Brewster calls “Brewster
Historical” the sidewalks on underpass are magnificent.
4/17/2020 3:40 PM
120 Elementary Schools 4/17/2020 2:13 PM
121 beaches across town 4/17/2020 2:10 PM
122 Beaches 4/17/2020 2:03 PM
123 Crosby Landing - dangerous to bike along 6A 4/17/2020 1:46 PM
124 More access biking to beaches such as Skaket - without sharing the road!4/17/2020 1:01 PM
125 No 4/17/2020 12:54 PM
126 No 4/17/2020 12:27 PM
127 137. Cars speeding by, blind corners. Cannot bike with younger kids. If there was a side walk,
then people living off 137, closer to Rt 6, could bike up to access bike path by Ferretti's.
4/17/2020 12:23 PM
128 Herring Run is kind of difficult/scary with that road and parking situation.4/17/2020 12:21 PM
129 124 is not safe enough to ride with family 4/17/2020 12:13 PM
130 Anything along 6a. No bike lanes. Sidewalks not level and too crowded with people.4/17/2020 12:08 PM
131 Library. I live off Tubman road & its frightening to ride or walk on Tubman with no shoulder &
blind curves on it. And there is no bike lane on 6A.
4/17/2020 11:44 AM
132 zero 4/17/2020 11:39 AM
133 Getting to rail trail 4/17/2020 11:17 AM
134 Breakwater Beach - no bike lane on my road (Tubman) and busy, winding road 4/17/2020 10:49 AM
135 The most dangerous stretch for me personally is crossing the marsh between the Nat Hist Mus
and Luke’s. Ther is no shoulder for walkers or bikers - scares me to death when my kids walk
4/17/2020 10:47 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
32 / 82
this way!
136 Underpass toad 4/17/2020 10:42 AM
137 too dangerous, bad driving conditons 4/17/2020 10:42 AM
138 None 4/17/2020 10:38 AM
139 anything not directly connected to the rail trail 4/17/2020 10:09 AM
140 As I driver I worry about all the people biking home from work at night on 6a- it’s damgerous 4/17/2020 10:01 AM
141 We use the bike path to go into Orleans but rarely ride roads in Brewster. 6A and other roads to
destinations are too dangerous. Sidewalks can be used but need to stop or get onto road for
pedestrians.
4/17/2020 9:56 AM
142 From General store to Drummer Boy Park, no bike lane and narrow, curved roadway 4/17/2020 9:51 AM
143 Accessing the rail trail from the west of Underpants Rd is somewhat hazardous. I usually drive
to access points, then ride from there.
4/17/2020 9:47 AM
144 Beaches, and recreational off road bike trails 4/17/2020 9:43 AM
145 Drummer Boy Park. Have to ride on Rt. 6a 4/17/2020 9:41 AM
146 Stores 4/17/2020 9:40 AM
147 Beach...too much traffic, narrow roads, not safe for bikes 4/17/2020 9:32 AM
148 Connecting rail trail to more bay beaches - in busy summer months, there are a lot of cars on
the road and getting to bay beaches is harder.
4/17/2020 9:27 AM
149 None 4/17/2020 9:23 AM
150 AP Newcomb to drummer boy and wing island area. 6A has no sidewalks and is narrow on that
section of town leaving west Brewster as a pedestrian/bike island
4/17/2020 9:18 AM
151 any beaches, narrow roads, no bike paths to beaches.4/17/2020 9:14 AM
152 Shops, restaurants, entertainment, sporting events. No bike lane on busy roads w/o bike lane.
Have to drive bike to bike trail.
4/17/2020 9:08 AM
153 Na 4/17/2020 9:07 AM
154 Beaches and rail trail - not safe to ride bikes in millstone or 137 with no bike lanes.4/17/2020 9:06 AM
155 I would like to ride my bike to the bike path rather than have to transport it in my car but riding
on Tubman road is treacherous.
4/17/2020 9:04 AM
156 6a 4/17/2020 8:52 AM
157 Biking on any road in Brewster is like going on a suicide mission. No Shoulders on roads. I
have bike across the USA on a 4k mile trip and Brewster & CC in general are the most
dangerous roads I have ever encountered due to No Shoulders for cyclists.
4/17/2020 8:52 AM
158 Sheep pond 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
159 I live off of Millstone Road. I would like to be able to walk or bike to stores on Route 6A, but
the lack of sidewalks and the lack of bike lanes makes it too dangerous. Also, if I go to the rail
trail, there are no turnoffs from it that lead to 6A unless I go through someone's private
property.
4/17/2020 8:48 AM
160 Would love a safer way to reach the rail trail from Lower Rd area. Our family would love to bike
safely to the Brewster Store, or to the Rail Trail. Crowded intersections and fast roads make it
a scary ride.
4/17/2020 8:42 AM
161 great fields road to bay beach. Dirt part of Great Fields is very difficult to navigate by bicycle.
Also crossing 6A in summer time can be challenging.
4/17/2020 8:41 AM
162 Any area off of 137. 137 is a dangerous road for bikers.4/17/2020 8:37 AM
163 Would like to bike to provincetown without riding along rte 6 4/17/2020 8:35 AM
164 Drummer Boy Park 4/17/2020 8:33 AM
165 Freeman’s way fields , beaches 4/17/2020 8:30 AM
166 Main highway 4/17/2020 8:30 AM
167 bike trail---Rt. 137 too crowded 4/17/2020 8:29 AM
168 I do not bike 4/17/2020 8:22 AM
169 Stony brook road to bike trail on 137. No sidewalks and people drive through stony brook road
like it’s a racetrack
4/17/2020 8:21 AM
170 Crosby Beach from Vesper Pond Drive off 6A.4/17/2020 8:21 AM
171 No 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
172 millstone road 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
173 Anywhere on Route 137 or West Brewster along 6A where the Bike Trail does not go. It would
be great to get into Harwich towards CVS and Stop and Shop via Bike as the trail goes
nowhere near it and 137 is very narrow. You can't get to Drummer Boy easily either.
4/17/2020 8:15 AM
174 1) Rail trail cannot be accessed in East Brewster because of lack of sidewalk on 6A, 2) Spruce
Hill: The trail could be maintained to level and make this area easy for bikes to ride to the
beach.
4/17/2020 7:30 AM
175 None 4/17/2020 7:19 AM
176 Millstone Road, beaches, ponds 4/16/2020 4:48 PM
177 Drummer Boy Park, Panes Creek, Kate's Seafood, the Brewster Store, Brewster Market,
anywhere on 6A!
4/16/2020 3:51 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
33 / 82
178 I bike up Airline Road but it feels unsafe.4/16/2020 2:40 PM
179 none 4/16/2020 2:10 PM
180 My neighborhood does not connect to anything by sidewalk. I have to ride along Main St in the
roadway to get anywhere
4/16/2020 12:59 PM
181 Millstone road and Freeman’s Way are not conducive to cycling. The bike lane is non-
existent/too narrow and drivers are distracted. Walking/running and cycling are too risky on
these roads for adults and especially children.
4/16/2020 12:52 PM
182 Paine's Creek beach - too much traffic in narrow road 4/16/2020 12:47 PM
183 down millstone rd - dnagerous and deadly 4/16/2020 11:42 AM
184 Stonybrook.... no bike lane and narrow road.4/16/2020 11:16 AM
185 route to Kate's, CCMNH and herring run in summer No safe way to bike there 4/16/2020 11:04 AM
186 Nothing that is not related to how far I can physically go 4/16/2020 10:54 AM
187 Crosby/Linnell Landing beaches -- no excuse not to have a bike trail extension ASAP 4/16/2020 10:24 AM
188 Beach: No bike lanes and crowded road with inconsiderate motorists 4/16/2020 10:07 AM
189 Great Fields Rd. to 124 to 6A. Too much traffic and no bike lanes.4/16/2020 9:53 AM
190 Setucket to 6A - would be nice to have a sidewalk to ride on 4/16/2020 9:49 AM
191 do not ride 4/16/2020 9:44 AM
192 Ride to beaches, bay side and ponds. Roads are too narrow to feel safe riding, i.e. Long Pond
Road, Millstone Road, Route 6a
4/16/2020 9:15 AM
193 Bike trail as no sidewalks 4/16/2020 9:14 AM
194 no 4/16/2020 8:56 AM
195 Crosby Beach & other town beaches.4/16/2020 8:51 AM
196 Setucket and Stoney brook road are especially dangerous. We biked it once and regretted it.
Dennis has nice wide sidewalks for safer use
4/16/2020 8:50 AM
197 Anywhere because to get anywhere, I have to ride my bike on RT-137, which is a
DANGEROUS road on which to ride a bike.
4/16/2020 8:33 AM
198 We live over on Route 39...no access to anything. It would be nice to have a path going to the
cape cod rail trail
4/16/2020 8:30 AM
199 Mants Landing requires too much riding on 6A 4/16/2020 8:08 AM
200 6A for short trips to get to stores 4/16/2020 7:31 AM
201 137, underpass, Millstone rd, Freemans 4/16/2020 7:26 AM
202 Long pond road would benefit from a bike lane to the rail trail. Bike routes to the beach would
be nice also.
4/16/2020 6:30 AM
203 No 4/16/2020 6:03 AM
204 Rt 6A needs either bike lane or more sidewalks. Too much traffic on narrow road.4/16/2020 5:32 AM
205 Crosby and Linnell Landing Breaches - roads too narrow, too many pot holes, and fast drivers
make it dangerous.
4/16/2020 12:01 AM
206 I think the bike trail from Nickerson Campground to Linnell Landing would be a fantastic
addition to the Town and would bring more families to vacation in Brewster
4/15/2020 9:37 PM
207 Brewster Center from Whiffle Tree Road. 4-5 miles on too busy 6A or Setucket. Roads are
unsafe for bike riders due to distracted driving. (p.s. I am a long-time rider and used to be good
friends w/Don and Frieda Palmer Don owned a bike shop on Rt. 6A in West Brewster.
4/15/2020 8:27 PM
208 Dennis, no bike path 4/15/2020 8:21 PM
209 Bike to Harwich sidewalk along Rt137. There is too much traffic and big trucks 4/15/2020 7:51 PM
210 Provide signage along route from Rail Trail near intersection of Route 124 and GreatFields Rd
to Stony Brook Rd and Main St, along Brier La to Lower Rd, with signage at Paines Creek and
Robbins Hill Rosds to Bay beaches. Much is unpaved.
4/15/2020 7:46 PM
211 Millstone road to Nickerson is scarey 4/15/2020 7:19 PM
212 Rail trail access from most residential neighborhoods. The rail trail bisects Brewster but is
difficult to access safely from most of the town. Specifically I live off of Rt 137 at sheep pond
drive. Riding along 137 would be convenient but it is dangerous.
4/15/2020 6:23 PM
213 I live off Slough Road and there are no bike lanes. It’s a windy road and doesn’t feel safe for
biking.
4/15/2020 6:14 PM
214 Patriot Square in Dennis - roads too busy, no shoulders or bike lanes Connect Freeman's Way
with Nickerson Park bike path network - only poor quality paths
4/15/2020 5:57 PM
215 None 4/15/2020 5:43 PM
216 Brewster beaches, Rt 6A and Rt 137 are dangerous to ride a bike on. Limits ability to access
salt water beaches
4/15/2020 5:34 PM
217 Drummer Boy Park. Roads are somewhat dangerous.4/15/2020 5:30 PM
218 Rail trail - not possible without transporting bike in car.4/15/2020 4:50 PM
219 Freeman’s field CcNatural HistoryMuseum Stop and Shop E Harwich 4/15/2020 4:46 PM
220 None 4/15/2020 4:30 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
34 / 82
221 Library 4/15/2020 3:50 PM
222 riding on 6A is usually difficult 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
223 Grist mill at Stonybrook 4/15/2020 3:37 PM
224 It's hard to get safely from West Brewster to the rail trail. Think Betty's Curve.4/15/2020 3:28 PM
225 Biking to Paines Creek Beach, there is no cross walk from Paines Creek Road. Not a fan of
sidewalks on secondary roads, they are usually not too busy
4/15/2020 3:18 PM
226 6A from Brier Lane to Lemon Tree Village, which lacks a sidewalk and is very dangerous 4/15/2020 2:55 PM
227 Biking along 124 is hard, as is Tubman Rd. To get to the bike path.4/15/2020 2:45 PM
228 No 4/15/2020 2:42 PM
229 Anything on 6 a. Too busy/crowded 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
230 Bayside beaches due to busy Rt 6a.4/15/2020 2:34 PM
231 Bay beaches 4/15/2020 2:31 PM
232 No I don’t bike 4/15/2020 2:31 PM
233 I would bike to work on 6A if there was a bike lane on Route 137, but won't take my life in my
hands doing it now.
4/15/2020 2:31 PM
234 Anything through the center of town on Rt. 6A is really too dangerous. Roads are narrow and
curbs are high. It would be nice to bike to the bus stop by the Senior Center, lock the bike
there and take the bus to Outer Cape beaches, etc.
4/15/2020 2:31 PM
235 6A has too much traffic and not bike lanes, protected or otherwise.4/15/2020 2:25 PM
236 To bike path from house on Millstone 4/15/2020 1:05 PM
237 Cape Cod Rail Trail from West Brewster. Narrow and busy roads, distracted drivers 4/15/2020 12:08 PM
238 The paths along 6A are great - a real improvement. But drivers go too fast on secondary roads
such as Lower Road, endangering both bikers and walkers.
4/15/2020 9:21 AM
239 I live in West Brewster, where they decided NOT to put side walks (bike path). I cannot safely
access any destinations from my house without riding down the side of 6A. Not a safe place to
be on a bike
4/15/2020 8:19 AM
240 Crosby Beach 4/14/2020 7:32 PM
241 Any destination on or north of Rt 6a. I live in West Brewster and I would like Brewster to
expand the bike trail all along 6a and/or Satucket. Go for grant money with Dennis and create a
trail from Satucket to Airline to 6a. It is not safe to bike on 6a. FYI...there is a glitch in
question #13, it will not allow me to enter a comment. I had to change my answer in order to
proceed.
4/14/2020 6:05 PM
242 Would love to bike to Drummer Boy Park or Wing Island but 6A is windy, busy, and dangerous
with my kids.
4/14/2020 3:41 PM
243 137 4/14/2020 3:35 PM
244 I walk and bike regularly to Freeman's Fields, but heavy vehicle traffic makes it dangerous.4/14/2020 3:25 PM
245 No bike 4/13/2020 1:58 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
35 / 82
77.84%390
75.65%379
68.26%342
34.73%174
31.54%158
26.95%135
16.17%81
Q15 What uses would you like to see at Drummer Boy Park? (Check all
that apply)
Answered: 501 Skipped: 99
Total Respondents: 501
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY [SEE LIST IN QUESTION 8 FOR OTHER POSSIBLE USES])DATE
1 Fence playground/Let dogs return 6/16/2021 8:09 AM
2 Amphitheater 6/15/2021 11:38 AM
3 Splash Pad 6/12/2021 10:13 PM
4 Music 6/12/2021 10:32 AM
5 None 6/10/2021 5:02 PM
6 Dogs! it used to be so fun & social and now nearly empty every day. Such a sad state of
affairs.
5/10/2020 8:44 PM
7 Dog park 5/4/2020 7:42 AM
8 I think the Bay vista looking across Drummer Boy is enough for me! Want to make sure the
kids' playground stays and that kids can run in the field, so NO fencing the playground in,
please!
5/3/2020 12:42 PM
9 Town annual picnic 4/30/2020 3:50 PM
10 Town celebrations 4/30/2020 10:31 AM
11 Tai Chi 4/27/2020 3:12 PM
12 New fenced Playground 4/24/2020 12:52 PM
13 Keeping it open to dogs 4/23/2020 3:46 PM
14 A camera system through police station to stop people from dog off leash and people who
don’t pick up after.
4/23/2020 8:29 AM
15 Dog park 4/22/2020 9:15 PM
16 water fountain, beach parking (for trail/boardwalk to WIng Island), and regrade the
music/gazebo area into a more effective amphitheater
4/22/2020 12:28 PM
17 Beach(sand) volleyball 4/22/2020 9:55 AM
18 dogs on leashes 4/22/2020 9:21 AM
19 Dogs 4/22/2020 9:18 AM
20 dog park 4/22/2020 8:34 AM
21 Farmers market 4/22/2020 8:21 AM
22 Farmers markets 4/22/2020 5:58 AM
23 Off leash dog area 4/21/2020 12:49 PM
24 Fairs/festivals; leashed dog events 4/21/2020 12:07 PM
25 dog park like Johny Kelly 4/20/2020 11:56 AM
Trail/boa
rdwalk to
Wing
Island
Summer
events
Walking
trails
Fenced
children’
s
playgr...
Exercise
programs
Pavilion Other
(please
specify
[see l...
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Trail/boardwalk to Wing Island
Summer events
Walking trails
Fenced children’s playground
Exercise programs
Pavilion
Other (please specify [see list in Question 8 for other possible uses])
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
36 / 82
26 Really disappointed when this was closed as a dog park. May never visit again 4/20/2020 11:53 AM
27 more outdoor recreation capabilities, expanded playground, basketball courts 4/20/2020 10:31 AM
28 Frisbee golf, bocce, more inviting picnic areas 4/19/2020 9:18 AM
29 I think this was a great spot for the dog park if the playground were fenced in.4/18/2020 6:39 PM
30 Stop n Shop gracery store with a big paved parking lot.4/18/2020 5:00 PM
31 dog park 4/18/2020 4:37 PM
32 summer outdoor yoga classes / a few picnic tables 4/18/2020 12:48 PM
33 All town events providing restrooms are installed 4/18/2020 9:11 AM
34 Brewster NEEDS an indoor recreation facility 4/18/2020 8:46 AM
35 More Farmers' Markets 4/18/2020 8:36 AM
36 Dog park 4/17/2020 11:54 PM
37 Need a better Farmer’s Market.4/17/2020 11:09 PM
38 I used to use it when I could take my dog. Now it's filled with goose poop and no one uses it
unless its summer. Allow dogs in the off season maybe?
4/17/2020 5:02 PM
39 Dog park 4/17/2020 4:23 PM
40 Fenced in dog park 4/17/2020 3:16 PM
41 Off season Dog park 4/17/2020 12:55 PM
42 Dog run 4/17/2020 12:07 PM
43 Farmers Mkt., Basketball half court, better playground- the existing one is not great 4/17/2020 10:49 AM
44 Fenced in Dog area 4/17/2020 10:19 AM
45 A morning yoga class would be cool. Trail to water, better water view.4/17/2020 9:49 AM
46 appropriate benches and trail foundations for use by those with mobility issues; greater use of
park, off season, for resident programming; exercise stations for older adults along trails at
appropriate intervals; raised platform for viewing Bay; intergenerational programming at park
4/17/2020 9:37 AM
47 Don’t need playground fenced in but do need updates & maintained playground equipment 4/17/2020 9:21 AM
48 Outdoor fitness area/ outdoor obstacle course- they have been becoming very popular in other
areas!
4/17/2020 9:17 AM
49 dog park 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
50 Skateboard park 4/17/2020 8:43 AM
51 Off leash dog area 4/17/2020 8:37 AM
52 dog area 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
53 Access to Wing Island would be a huge asset to the town. Wing Island is underutilized
because it is difficult to access. It would also take the pressure off other beach destinations.
4/17/2020 7:31 AM
54 Farmers’ market 4/16/2020 9:40 PM
55 more summer music concerts 4/16/2020 3:52 PM
56 Let the dogs back!4/16/2020 2:40 PM
57 Splash pad 4/16/2020 12:52 PM
58 No dogs!4/16/2020 11:16 AM
59 family gatherings, weddings?, concerts, theater 4/16/2020 11:06 AM
60 more dog friendly 4/16/2020 10:54 AM
61 Dog park. Still enclosed 4/16/2020 9:21 AM
62 Farmers Market 4/16/2020 9:21 AM
63 Expand farmers market 4/16/2020 8:51 AM
64 compostable toilets instead of unsightly potapotties which are a terrible view upon entering
Brewster. Also, rehabing the building there so that events can be held indoors.
4/16/2020 8:50 AM
65 Let dogs go back on leashes to walk with their owners 4/16/2020 8:32 AM
66 Unrestricted use by ALL citizens, including dogs / dog owners 4/16/2020 8:20 AM
67 Fenced dog park 4/16/2020 8:11 AM
68 Dog park 4/16/2020 7:27 AM
69 Outdoor workout stations for adults 4/16/2020 12:02 AM
70 Boardwalk is ridiculous waste of taxpayer money. We already have a sidewalk and trail. Stop
developing everything
4/15/2020 8:26 PM
71 Shoulders along 6A and bike entrance at east side to allow better bike access 4/15/2020 5:59 PM
72 Trai/boardwalk to Wing Island?...you must be joking! NO, NO, NO!4/15/2020 4:52 PM
73 Less Dogs.4/15/2020 4:08 PM
74 more outdoor music events 4/15/2020 3:35 PM
75 BOARD WALK TO WING ISLAND and before that at least signage and adverstisement that
you can park there and walk the John Wing Trail.
4/15/2020 3:29 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
37 / 82
76 The farmers market is great! I would like the park preserved as a historical vista like fort hill-
not a developed active rec area. It's the heart of Brewster and should be preserved to maintain
rural character. The kids shouldn't have to be fenced in!
4/15/2020 3:21 PM
77 unfenced playground 4/15/2020 2:56 PM
78 Yoga classes would be nice.4/14/2020 6:06 PM
79 basketball courts 4/14/2020 3:43 PM
80 Farmer's Market 4/14/2020 3:35 PM
81 renewed dog access 4/14/2020 1:19 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
38 / 82
Q16 Do you believe you receive sufficient information about the Town's
open space and recreation resources?
Answered: 497 Skipped: 103
14.49%
72
56.14%
279
24.55%
122
4.83%
24
497
2.20
Always Sometimes Rarely Never
(no label)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ALWAYS SOMETIMES RARELY NEVER TOTAL WEIGHTED AVERAGE
(no label)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
39 / 82
34.59%174
69.98%352
32.01%161
7.75%39
3.98%20
7.36%37
10.14%51
6.56%33
17.50%88
36.78%185
53.68%270
45.73%230
15.90%80
Q17 How do you prefer to receive news/information concerning open
space and recreation resources? (Check all that apply)
Answered: 503 Skipped: 97
Total Respondents: 503
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Email 6/23/2021 7:40 AM
2 Email 6/15/2021 2:11 PM
3 Town email updates 6/14/2021 7:00 PM
4 email 6/12/2021 2:55 PM
5 email 6/12/2021 7:46 AM
6 Email 6/12/2021 7:09 AM
7 Email 5/10/2020 2:34 PM
8 Emails 5/7/2020 6:17 PM
9 I need to seek out this information 5/6/2020 4:38 PM
10 There doesn't appear to have been a concerted effort to inform the public about the Town's
recreational resources, with the exception of the Trail Guide.
5/3/2020 12:48 PM
11 Brewster Ponds Coalition 5/2/2020 9:31 AM
12 Brewster conservation trust 4/30/2020 10:40 AM
13 email 4/26/2020 9:50 PM
14 Email .. town of brewster 4/25/2020 10:40 AM
15 Send out a yearly news letter 4/24/2020 12:54 PM
16 Email notices and newsletter (which could include newsletter above)4/23/2020 3:53 PM
17 Email - it’s free 4/22/2020 3:12 PM
18 Brewster Conservation Trust 4/22/2020 12:41 PM
19 Email 4/22/2020 10:00 AM
20 Most of my information is gained from Brewster Ponds Coalition, Brewster Conservation Trust
or Natural Resources Dept.
4/22/2020 9:27 AM
Newsp
aper
Town
websi
te
Town
Faceb
ook
Other
Faceb
ook
Town
Twitt
er
Other
socia
l
media
Radio Brews
ter
Gover
nm...
Word
of
mouth
Natur
al
Resou
rc...
Brews
ter
Walki
ng...
Brews
ter
Recre
at...
Other
(plea
se
sp...
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Newspaper
Town website
Town Facebook
Other Facebook
Town Twitter
Other social media
Radio
Brewster Government Cable TV (Channel 18)
Word of mouth
Natural Resources Department pamphlets/signs
Brewster Walking Trails Guide
Brewster Recreation Department newsletter
Other (please specify)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
40 / 82
21 E mail 4/22/2020 8:50 AM
22 Internet 4/22/2020 8:25 AM
23 Email 4/21/2020 12:11 PM
24 email 4/20/2020 7:49 PM
25 email 4/20/2020 5:36 PM
26 was not aware of twitter feed 4/20/2020 4:32 PM
27 topic-specific e-mail updates 4/20/2020 3:37 PM
28 Email 4/20/2020 2:48 PM
29 BAPR 4/20/2020 1:35 PM
30 email 4/20/2020 1:17 PM
31 e-mail 4/20/2020 12:55 PM
32 Emaik 4/20/2020 11:32 AM
33 BAPR emails 4/20/2020 11:00 AM
34 Brewster part time residents 4/20/2020 10:26 AM
35 Town emails 4/20/2020 10:11 AM
36 Email 4/20/2020 9:55 AM
37 Email 4/19/2020 9:25 AM
38 Emailed Newsletter 4/18/2020 6:43 PM
39 Don't want or need such info. I want to hear that property taxes are being lowered.4/18/2020 5:04 PM
40 use Nextdoor Brewster more!4/18/2020 4:41 PM
41 unsure, but where ever it is, it has to be "advertised" maybe by mailings to local homes, and
then posted in Cape child resources and at local hang outs
4/18/2020 8:54 AM
42 information center at town hall 4/18/2020 8:34 AM
43 email 4/18/2020 7:28 AM
44 Brewster non profit groups 4/17/2020 6:19 PM
45 e-mail residents 4/17/2020 5:05 PM
46 Town email newsletter 4/17/2020 12:59 PM
47 eNewsletter 4/17/2020 11:52 AM
48 Email 4/17/2020 11:35 AM
49 Email 4/17/2020 11:19 AM
50 How about a spring open house to announce programs/available facilities for that year?4/17/2020 10:53 AM
51 email 4/17/2020 10:51 AM
52 text 4/17/2020 10:05 AM
53 More guides to spaces, online and pamphlets 4/17/2020 9:54 AM
54 Council on Aging newsletter 4/17/2020 9:50 AM
55 Email 4/17/2020 9:43 AM
56 email notifications 4/17/2020 8:47 AM
57 emails 4/17/2020 8:24 AM
58 Email 4/17/2020 8:21 AM
59 Email from the town works great!4/17/2020 7:34 AM
60 Emails 4/16/2020 4:52 PM
61 Town email list 4/16/2020 10:57 AM
62 Town of Brewster email blast, where I found out about this survey 4/16/2020 10:10 AM
63 Cape Codder paper 4/16/2020 8:57 AM
64 Daily Brewster emails 4/16/2020 8:55 AM
65 Email 4/16/2020 8:47 AM
66 Newsletter to residents 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
67 Town email - under utilized!!4/16/2020 8:23 AM
68 email blasts 4/16/2020 7:46 AM
69 Brewster Conservation Trust 4/16/2020 7:35 AM
70 Pushed emails 4/16/2020 7:29 AM
71 Social media is useless 4/16/2020 6:08 AM
72 Emails 4/15/2020 11:02 PM
73 email notices 4/15/2020 6:30 PM
74 Capecod.com 4/15/2020 4:14 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
41 / 82
75 emails from Conservation Com 4/15/2020 3:54 PM
76 eblasts 4/15/2020 3:37 PM
77 Conservation Trust info 4/15/2020 2:40 PM
78 email 4/15/2020 2:28 PM
79 Town emails are great!4/15/2020 9:23 AM
80 Email newsletters 4/14/2020 4:34 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
42 / 82
Q18 What prevents you from using the Town’s open space and recreation
resources? (Check all that apply)
Answered: 461 Skipped: 139
Don’t know how
to find them
Concerned
about ticks
No good map to
locate them
There isn’t
adequate...
Don’t have time
The resources
are not...
Other reasons
(please...
There isn’t
adequate...
Lack of
desired...
Lack of
desired...
I use these
resources in...
Mobility/health
/age limits me
Concerned
about safety
Concerned
about gettin...
Programs not
at convenien...
No
family/frien...
The resources
are unappealing
Lack of
childcare
The resources
are not ADA...
The resources
are not...
Lack of
transportation
Cost is too
high
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
43 / 82
42.08%194
37.74%174
36.44%168
16.92%78
16.70%77
15.84%73
14.53%67
14.10%65
10.41%48
8.03%37
7.81%36
7.81%36
6.07%28
5.21%24
5.21%24
4.77%22
2.39%11
1.74%8
1.52%7
1.08%5
1.08%5
0.65%3
Total Respondents: 461
#OTHER REASONS (PLEASE DESCRIBE)DATE
1 Need more rec programs for seniors!6/16/2021 8:17 AM
2 A document that identifies these resources and how to access them is needed.6/15/2021 11:49 AM
3 Can't bring my dog 6/14/2021 7:25 PM
4 We need a pool and swim lessons!!!6/12/2021 10:16 PM
5 Facilities/programs are kept secret and not communicated to residents.6/12/2021 10:49 AM
6 Not enough outreach, notifications, communication 6/12/2021 7:09 AM
7 Many trail markings leave a lot to be desired 5/6/2020 4:38 PM
8 I don't experience any restrictions in accessing Brewster's recreation areas 5/3/2020 12:48 PM
9 I walk my dog in Punkhorns daily 5/2/2020 9:31 AM
10 I do use them 4/29/2020 7:59 PM
11 Nothing prevents me from using the Town's open space resources.4/27/2020 1:52 PM
12 Restrictions can be an issue including regarding pets. Crowds sometimes restrict my use.4/23/2020 3:53 PM
13 One of the reasons is too many people with dogs off leash 4/23/2020 9:00 AM
14 I love walking on the conservation trails and appreciate the trail maps.4/22/2020 4:34 PM
15 Does not apply 4/22/2020 1:45 PM
16 not clear where the public rights of way are 4/22/2020 12:41 PM
17 I use bike trails.4/22/2020 12:35 PM
18 No reason. I can and do use them.4/22/2020 10:50 AM
19 Need more map references so we can find these areas.4/22/2020 10:00 AM
20 Need more beach parking 4/21/2020 1:30 PM
21 need a swimming pool 4/21/2020 1:17 PM
22 We back up to Nickerson, so nearly all our recreation is on state land 4/21/2020 12:11 PM
23 We could bike to them all if the bike access were better 4/20/2020 4:32 PM
24 Need to have attention focused on the resources/opportunitites to insure they are "scheduled"
in to my plans
4/20/2020 3:37 PM
25 Our town has a need for a Rec Center with courts accessible for all ages 4/19/2020 9:25 AM
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Don’t know how to find them
Concerned about ticks
No good map to locate them
There isn’t adequate parking
Don’t have time
The resources are not convenient for me to walk to
Other reasons (please describe)
There isn’t adequate recreational programming in Brewster
Lack of desired facilities
Lack of desired programs
I use these resources in other towns
Mobility/health/age limits me
Concerned about safety
Concerned about getting lost
Programs not at convenient times for me
No family/friends to join me
The resources are unappealing
Lack of childcare
The resources are not ADA accessible
The resources are not convenient for me to drive to
Lack of transportation
Cost is too high
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
44 / 82
26 I didn't know about some of the areas on your list. I will try to find a map- I had one once! I
would plan to use them if I knew about them. But I use the ones I am familiar with as often as
possible.
4/18/2020 6:43 PM
27 I don't want to use them, period.4/18/2020 5:04 PM
28 Not enough information available on trails/ponds accessibility, parking and if there are bike
racks.
4/18/2020 9:50 AM
29 i have kids with disabilities, and resources on Cape are too far or too expensive, this is NOT
an inclusive community, I never feel welcome at events in Brewster with my two boys
4/18/2020 8:54 AM
30 I use the town spaces as much as I can. I love exploring them 4/18/2020 8:34 AM
31 I should make the time to learn about them and find them, town website?4/17/2020 9:42 PM
32 I’m simply not aware of them.4/17/2020 4:27 PM
33 Cannot take a stoller 4/17/2020 1:13 PM
34 I use bike trail, Nickerson and Wing Island, that is enough 4/17/2020 12:29 PM
35 Fines for illegal parking at beaches should be higher and include towing of vehicles. A $40
ticket is cheap admission fee for rich vacationers.
4/17/2020 11:52 AM
36 Unaware of what resources are available 4/17/2020 10:21 AM
37 you guys closing pickleball courts last 5 weeks!4/17/2020 10:05 AM
38 Variety is good! A town band that plays the same type of music each week, year after year is
boring. Townwide events are the same year after year. Our big events have become a one and
done type of thing...folks have become complacent.
4/17/2020 10:01 AM
39 I do not feel prevented from using them.4/17/2020 9:38 AM
40 Many trails are very short, wet, not well maintained.4/17/2020 9:12 AM
41 There are no recreational spaces for teens in Brewster, we have to use other towns facilities 4/17/2020 9:05 AM
42 Need more indoor pickleball courts 4/17/2020 8:56 AM
43 Trails in Punkhorn are very close to my house, but are generally loaded with horse manure and
unappealing for hiking.
4/17/2020 8:47 AM
44 I would prefer to bike and it isn’t always safe for me to bike to these 4/17/2020 8:45 AM
45 Not prevented, I use what I enjoy. Just wish there was a safe way to go up and down 6A
without a car
4/16/2020 3:58 PM
46 Banning of dogs--can't exercise them AND me separately 4/16/2020 2:43 PM
47 Just busy with other activities.4/16/2020 1:20 PM
48 Lacking a community pool.4/16/2020 12:54 PM
49 Getting too old 4/16/2020 12:54 PM
50 I live close to Nickerson which is my main focus 4/16/2020 10:30 AM
51 very few bathroom facilities 4/16/2020 10:20 AM
52 Inability to bring my dog 4/16/2020 10:10 AM
53 Overly restrictive toward dogs - need dog hours year round!4/16/2020 8:23 AM
54 I DO use them frequently!4/16/2020 8:17 AM
55 New to town so unaware of most areas 4/16/2020 6:08 AM
56 Most trails not long enough to take a good hike. Just short little trails not worth bothering. Just
go to Nickerson
4/15/2020 8:31 PM
57 I am not aware of enough of them.4/15/2020 8:29 PM
58 Need pickle ball courts & more tennis courts 4/15/2020 7:21 PM
59 Nothing prevents me 4/15/2020 4:54 PM
60 I use them often 4/15/2020 4:49 PM
61 Nothing prevents me. I use them when I want to.4/15/2020 4:14 PM
62 I use tgem 4/15/2020 3:41 PM
63 Shouldn't you ask if it's a problem first? No problem here.4/15/2020 3:34 PM
64 There is a lot of great conservation land all around, just st no trails on it! I would like a
connection of trails to make a long hike rather than a short mile or less
4/15/2020 3:25 PM
65 Been there. Done that. Past it.4/15/2020 2:41 PM
66 Restroom facilities/porta-potties would help.4/15/2020 2:35 PM
67 Not aware of them 4/15/2020 2:28 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
45 / 82
Q19 How would you describe access to Brewster conservation and
recreation areas?
Answered: 492 Skipped: 108
8.94%
44
30.89%
152
51.22%
252
3.66%
18
1.63%
8
1.42%
7
2.24%
11
492
2.71
#PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS REGARDING ACCESS:DATE
1 Areas that we are aware of have excellent access. More info and reminders of other areas
would be helpful.
6/15/2021 11:49 AM
2 Very good in general, but many are challenging to access without a vehicle. Need for safe
access for bicyclists and pedestrians.
6/14/2021 7:00 PM
3 If you mean ADA accessible, many areas are not. If you mean parking, convenience, not sure.6/12/2021 7:09 AM
4 most are accessible for people without mobility restrictions 5/3/2020 12:48 PM
5 I find it easy to access Brewster Conservation areas 4/24/2020 3:43 PM
6 Lots of people want to use them which is good but can be an issue.4/23/2020 3:53 PM
7 More sidewalks would be wonderful 4/23/2020 9:00 AM
8 Fear of hunting, never sure where hunters are, and they have warned me not to go on trails
becuse I may get shot. Also just knowing about and finding places - eg punkhorns - a major
potentisl area, but hidden away and not well signposted
4/22/2020 12:41 PM
9 Parking needed 4/22/2020 8:50 AM
10 The unpaved roads through the punkhorns (and similar bog roads) are a challenge, regardless
of vehicle/on foot
4/21/2020 12:11 PM
11 Excellent for the ones I know about. Learned of new ones from this survey.4/21/2020 11:12 AM
12 The easier it is to access by bike, the better 4/20/2020 4:32 PM
13 Not sure I can answer accurately. Believe they are average or better 4/20/2020 3:37 PM
14 i live across from nickerson so this is easy for me. dont' know about others 4/20/2020 10:35 AM
15 inadequate parking 4/20/2020 10:26 AM
16 ACCESS to what is available....not access for everyone and not access for indoor kids
activites or kids with disabilities
4/18/2020 8:54 AM
17 Beach access is still poor.4/17/2020 11:14 PM
18 We are lucky to have so many terrific spaces.4/17/2020 5:05 PM
19 Those I know of are accessinle 4/17/2020 10:06 AM
20 4/17/2020 10:01 AM
21 little parking at many sites 4/17/2020 8:58 AM
22 I really don't know how to answer this question 4/17/2020 8:47 AM
23 Unsure of how to access many areas, will need to research 4/17/2020 8:41 AM
24 Need to drive to everything in town 4/17/2020 8:33 AM
25 What happened to the bike trail extension plan to Crosby Beach? There has been no follow up
since the initial meetings
4/17/2020 7:34 AM
26 Limited parking; but do not want huge lots, either!4/16/2020 2:43 PM
27 Need marked bike trails to pond landings + bike racks 4/16/2020 10:30 AM
28 (Have not tried to access every one of them)4/16/2020 9:51 AM
29 No reason all beaches cannot be made accessible 4/16/2020 9:28 AM
Excellent Above Average Average Below Average Poor
Don’t use areas Unaware of areas
(no label)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
EXCELLENT ABOVE
AVERAGE
AVERAGE BELOW
AVERAGE
POOR DON’T
USE
AREAS
UNAWARE
OF AREAS
TOTAL WEIGHTED
AVERAGE
(no
label)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
46 / 82
30 I do not have trouble finding them. But I think I am not your normal "explorer" to find new
places
4/16/2020 9:20 AM
31 Parking for beaches and rail trail limited 4/16/2020 8:55 AM
32 Not a single pond/beach available to dogs May to September 4/16/2020 8:23 AM
33 Access to Freeman ball fields is difficult for Grandparents & disabled 4/15/2020 7:57 PM
34 Can improve bike access to beaches, Drummer boy park, Eddy School from Bike path 4/15/2020 6:03 PM
35 Don’t know about them 4/15/2020 5:45 PM
36 Better animal and litter control woiuld be nice.4/15/2020 4:14 PM
37 Sidewalks to Stonybrook Grist Mill!4/15/2020 3:41 PM
38 I was surprised at how many area there are that I don't know about.4/15/2020 3:41 PM
39 Lack of signage; lack of comprehensive lists of what's there and what's available there (it
should included suggested parking areas, if bike racks, etc.)
4/15/2020 3:34 PM
40 Brewster does an amazing job preserving land keep it up! A long distance connected hiking
trail from property to property would be nice
4/15/2020 3:25 PM
41 Need more options for summer beach parking 4/15/2020 2:40 PM
42 Walking paths at Drummer Boy (T-base) are eroded and unsuitable for wheelchair use.4/14/2020 3:29 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
47 / 82
Q20 How would you describe the maintenance of Brewster conservation
and recreation areas?
Answered: 496 Skipped: 104
12.10%
60
42.94%
213
37.90%
188
3.02%
15
0.00%
0
2.02%
10
2.02%
10
496
2.50
#PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS REGARDING MAINTENANCE:DATE
1 the eddy sisters trail and the ones by the community gardens are very well maintained. same
for mothers bog
6/15/2021 12:52 PM
2 Brewster Conservation Trust areas are well maintained 6/12/2021 7:09 AM
3 signage is the weakest point 4/22/2020 12:41 PM
4 Efforts by Natural Resources Dept, Brewster Ponds Coalition and Conservation Depts are
appreciated
4/22/2020 9:27 AM
5 Better signing 4/21/2020 1:17 PM
6 It is really disappointing that the stairs at the Spruce Hill Conservation area have been broken
and blocked off for several years. It prevents people with mobility issues from using that trail,
as they cannot reach the ultimate destination without clambering through the dunes
4/21/2020 12:03 PM
7 Really doing a nice job, and its not an easy job to do 4/20/2020 4:32 PM
8 Have reported litter and off-leash dogs at Mothers Bog. No ack.4/20/2020 12:05 PM
9 need places to place garbage if possible 4/20/2020 10:35 AM
10 Trails need to be marked!4/18/2020 9:17 AM
11 Trails troughout punkhorn have downed trees preventing easy access 4/17/2020 11:57 PM
12 very few public restrooms 4/17/2020 2:38 PM
13 I appreciate all the renourishing work done at Paine's Creek Beach. I'm sure it's done
elsewhere, too, but that's the beach we frequent the most and see it.
4/17/2020 1:13 PM
14 I can only speak about the rail trail, and it's great.4/17/2020 11:39 AM
15 Trails are always well maintained but playground at drummer boy is lacking 4/17/2020 10:18 AM
16 There should be trash containers and pick year round at Crosby Beach 4/17/2020 7:34 AM
17 Appreciate the trails being cleared of fallen trees 4/16/2020 2:43 PM
18 Trash handling/removal at town landings should be improved.4/16/2020 10:30 AM
19 I appreciate those who clear away fallen trees year round 4/16/2020 9:51 AM
20 Lot of areas for small staff to cover, especially walking trails 4/16/2020 9:20 AM
21 We thoroughly enjoy the hiking trail across from Brewster Natural museum 4/16/2020 8:55 AM
22 would appreciate more porta potties - people use the woods - ick 4/16/2020 8:17 AM
23 Stairs to beach at Spruce Run not in service for many months 4/15/2020 5:38 PM
24 Some pond landings need improvement 4/15/2020 5:37 PM
25 Need Ranger to educate/enforce to prevent resource damages.4/15/2020 2:40 PM
26 Many of the conservation area's like the Punkhorn are not easy to get to and difficult to
monitor for such things a dumping. There are not enought employees at the DPW to maintain
these areas or clean out beaches like the town of Dennis.
4/15/2020 8:28 AM
Excellent Above Average Average Below Average Poor
Don’t use areas Unaware of areas
(no label)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
EXCELLENT ABOVE
AVERAGE
AVERAGE BELOW
AVERAGE
POOR DON’T
USE
AREAS
UNAWARE
OF AREAS
TOTAL WEIGHTED
AVERAGE
(no
label)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
48 / 82
Q21 Select up to 2 improvements you would like the Town to pursue:
Answered: 495 Skipped: 105
More trails
for walking,...
Dog parks
More indoor
recreation...
Better control
of invasive...
Other
improvements...
Better signage
at conservat...
Better
boardwalks o...
Better trail
markers on...
Management of
wildlife and...
More
activities f...
More community
gardens
Better parking
at conservat...
More
sites/facili...
More
neighborhood...
Better parking
at recreatio...
More
children’s...
Improved
accessibilit...
Improved
accessibilit...
Outdoor
fitness...
Inclusive
playground
Better
park/playing...
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
49 / 82
34.95%173
24.85%123
19.80%98
17.17%85
16.97%84
15.56%77
15.56%77
14.75%73
13.94%69
13.13%65
11.92%59
10.91%54
9.90%49
9.09%45
9.09%45
6.26%31
5.45%27
4.85%24
4.65%23
2.63%13
2.63%13
Total Respondents: 495
#OTHER IMPROVEMENTS (PLEASE DESCRIBE):DATE
1 Inter generation community center 6/23/2021 7:40 AM
2 More activities for active seniors 6/16/2021 8:17 AM
3 Senior center 6/15/2021 11:49 AM
4 Indoor POOL 6/12/2021 10:16 PM
5 Better enforcement at beaches regarding keeping off dunes. Many visitors ignore or don’t
understand the preservation issue regarding dunes and keeping off them. Also we have rules
about beach fires that people also seem to ignore.
6/12/2021 10:43 AM
6 more dog friendly spaces, especially dog access to beaches in the summer.6/12/2021 7:46 AM
7 Why only 2? I’d like to include more 6/12/2021 7:09 AM
8 1. Sidewalk/Boardwalk over Paines Creek Marsh area from Drummer Boy Park to connect to
where sidewalk ends on 6A, near Stony Brook Road. 2. Boardwalk from Drummer Boy Park to
Wing Island.
5/8/2020 8:49 PM
9 Summertime beach access for dogs 5/8/2020 4:28 PM
10 we need an indoor pool/community center to attract young familiess 5/3/2020 7:22 PM
11 sufficient funding for maintenance, improvements and expansion 5/3/2020 12:48 PM
12 More sidewalks and better biking connections 4/29/2020 9:36 AM
13 Fishing access points & parking; increase hunt opportunities 4/25/2020 3:31 PM
14 sidewalks all the way on 6A from Dennis to Orleans 4/23/2020 11:46 AM
15 A community Center 4/23/2020 10:52 AM
16 An indoor pool!!!!4/23/2020 10:43 AM
17 Sidewalks 4/23/2020 9:00 AM
18 activities for seniors of varying abilities 4/22/2020 3:18 PM
19 ban hunting year-round near all public trails, beaches and recreation areas 4/22/2020 12:41 PM
20 More places for waste and recycling so people don't dump trash and leave nip bottles etc.
everywhere
4/22/2020 10:30 AM
21 Better access to beach 4/22/2020 8:25 AM
22 Harder on bikers that do not STOP and walk bike across roads 4/22/2020 12:30 AM
23 More concerts 4/21/2020 12:11 PM
24 Add a driving range AT the Captains Course 4/20/2020 6:48 PM
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
More trails for walking, hiking, running
Dog parks
More indoor recreation facilities
Better control of invasive species and forest pests
Other improvements (please describe):
Better signage at conservation trailheads
Better boardwalks on wet trail sections
Better trail markers on conservation trails
Management of wildlife and plant habitat
More activities for teens
More community gardens
Better parking at conservation trailheads
More sites/facilities for adult sports
More neighborhood parks
Better parking at recreation facilities
More children’s playgrounds
Improved accessibility for handicapped or mobility-impaired users at recreation facilities
Improved accessibility for handicapped or mobility-impaired users at conservation areas
Outdoor fitness equipment
Inclusive playground
Better park/playing field/playground maintenance
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
50 / 82
25 better bike access to existing conservation areas 4/20/2020 4:32 PM
26 Hunting and fishing access 4/20/2020 2:48 PM
27 so not waste money on dog parks there is plenty walking and running room for dogs in
Brewster without spending on a dog park
4/20/2020 1:17 PM
28 we do not need dog parks!!!!!!4/20/2020 12:55 PM
29 heavy fines for dog owners who don't pick up dog feces 4/20/2020 10:35 AM
30 Better information on shellfishing areas and regulations 4/20/2020 10:26 AM
31 more beach parking 4/20/2020 10:01 AM
32 better access to off roading for running and biking 4/19/2020 9:25 AM
33 Let them grow wild, stop public funding via taxes to obtain and support these areas, divest via
public sales to private purchasers who aren't tax exampt.
4/18/2020 5:04 PM
34 Bike lanes 4/18/2020 9:50 AM
35 More access to the school gymnasiums during no school hours would be nice!4/18/2020 9:17 AM
36 indoor pool access that is cost effective for families, Attleboro has a pool for local children
only...sure would be nice here (indoor)
4/18/2020 8:54 AM
37 sidewalks 4/18/2020 7:28 AM
38 side walks on major roads, esp for the summer J1's 4/17/2020 5:05 PM
39 More promotion of existing access.4/17/2020 4:27 PM
40 A community center that would hold programs for all ages and abilities 4/17/2020 2:14 PM
41 let's keep taxes down. Don't spend $$$ we do not have 4/17/2020 12:29 PM
42 Motor Boat ramp to ocean 4/17/2020 12:12 PM
43 better control of dogs on public lands 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
44 Better playground facilities, not necessarily more 4/17/2020 10:18 AM
45 More access for boat mooring on the bay and long pond 4/17/2020 10:06 AM
46 4 pickleball courts is not enough...need indoor during the winter like every other town on the
cape has
4/17/2020 10:05 AM
47 Better biking access throughout the town 4/17/2020 9:54 AM
48 More off season recreational programming; community center that would allow programming
indoors; strategically placed benches; developing group activities for support and socialization.
4/17/2020 9:50 AM
49 Dog friendly walking trails (like Thompson’s field in harwich). Outdoor fitness equipment near a
fenced in playground, and indoor community space for various activities like toddler playtime
where young families can interact and make new friends!
4/17/2020 9:20 AM
50 More bike paths, sidewalks 4/17/2020 9:18 AM
51 Bike lanes on roads 4/17/2020 9:10 AM
52 An indoor pool for the locals in the off season.4/17/2020 9:00 AM
53 More indoor pickleball needed 4/17/2020 8:56 AM
54 Better publicity and maps of conservation sites and walking trails 4/17/2020 8:47 AM
55 Updated playgrounds 4/17/2020 8:46 AM
56 Outdoor obstacle course 4/17/2020 8:45 AM
57 more wheelchair accessible places. Wheelchair access on beach the entire way to water 4/17/2020 8:21 AM
58 More sidewalks 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
59 Accessible for seniors 4/17/2020 7:23 AM
60 Development of community center for all ages, eliminate COA 4/16/2020 8:53 PM
61 A bike path along 6A 4/16/2020 3:58 PM
62 Pool needed 4/16/2020 12:54 PM
63 Rail trail extensions to town landings 4/16/2020 10:30 AM
64 More info about all walking trails and more funding to expand recreation and parks as 1 dept 4/16/2020 9:28 AM
65 Community Center 4/16/2020 9:17 AM
66 Upper Mill Pond cement ramp is very dangerous - slimy with moss, spaces between cement
slabs are not filled with stones/gravel.
4/16/2020 8:17 AM
67 Separate facilities for pickle ball and tennis. Need lights at courts. Need wall at courts for
practice.
4/16/2020 12:08 AM
68 It’s fine... why do you have to keep looking for more?4/15/2020 8:31 PM
69 Better signage/trail markings in Punkhorn 4/15/2020 7:44 PM
70 More conservation land 4/15/2020 7:32 PM
71 Pickle board courts & more tennis courts 4/15/2020 7:21 PM
72 longer walking trails including trials between conservation sites where possible 4/15/2020 6:30 PM
73 Cost control. Town government is not a social club. User fees are appropriate for many of the
services above.
4/15/2020 4:14 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
51 / 82
74 open parking on streets leading to beachers 4/15/2020 3:46 PM
75 Sidewalk to Grist Mill 4/15/2020 3:41 PM
76 I think the town should have a dog park but not if it means clearing a large area that is now
wooded. Wild animal habitat seems to be disappearing quickly in Brewster. We can't expect
animals to live only where we want them to. Too much land is being cleared for affordable
housing. We should be looking at the existing housing stock and making it affordable.
4/15/2020 3:41 PM
77 More bike trails 4/15/2020 3:21 PM
78 more beach parking 4/15/2020 3:03 PM
79 more mountain biking trails, put maps on line 4/15/2020 2:28 PM
80 Safe bikeways options especially West Brewster 4/15/2020 12:52 PM
81 More sidewalks along 6A 4/15/2020 8:28 AM
82 There is always room for improvements. Find other ways to raise the funds besides overides
and tax increases.
4/14/2020 4:48 PM
83 Bike path or multi-use path on Freeman's Way, linking residential neighborhoods with
Freeman's Fields, Captain's Course, and senior living facilities.
4/14/2020 3:29 PM
84 Lots of benches 4/13/2020 2:00 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
52 / 82
65.01%327
32.01%161
0.60%3
2.39%12
Q22 Which best describes you?
Answered: 503 Skipped: 97
TOTAL 503
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Former resident, work in town 6/14/2021 6:53 PM
2 former resident 4/30/2020 3:55 PM
3 Regularly use Brewster fro recreation but currently live in Yarmouth 4/22/2020 9:29 AM
4 Part-time resident here throughout the year; 5-6 months in toto.4/21/2020 1:53 PM
5 have a Fl home for some winter months 4/21/2020 1:02 PM
6 part-time, soon full-time resident. Long-time taxpayer 4/20/2020 4:35 PM
7 While a part-time resident, I spend the full year in Brewster and not just during the better
weather months
4/20/2020 3:39 PM
8 brewster (yer round) home owner, will retire here in 3 yrs 4/18/2020 8:39 AM
9 employee 4/16/2020 3:56 PM
10 Future year round resident 4/16/2020 9:51 AM
11 Own land in Brewster. Have summer house in E Dennis 4/15/2020 11:04 PM
12 We have been 4 month residents for last 15 years but will be full time starting this summer 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
Brewster
year-round
resident
Brewster
part-time
resident
Visitor Other (please
specify)
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Brewster year-round resident
Brewster part-time resident
Visitor
Other (please specify)
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
53 / 82
9.56%48
83.86%421
6.57%33
Q23 Do you now or have you served on any town boards or committees?
Answered: 502 Skipped: 98
TOTAL 502
#IF YES, PLEASE IDENTIFY WHICH BOARD OR COMMITTEE:DATE
1 Bikeways 6/13/2021 5:04 PM
2 Housing partnership and CPC 5/10/2020 8:48 PM
3 to many to list 5/6/2020 11:48 PM
4 Comservation Commission, Land Acquisition Committee, Board of Selectmen 4/27/2020 2:01 PM
5 ZBA 4/22/2020 12:33 PM
6 involved as volunteer in Brewster Natural Resources 4/22/2020 9:29 AM
7 CPA, Recycling, Swap SHOP 4/21/2020 1:19 PM
8 Bikeways comm.4/20/2020 12:08 PM
9 Brewster Assoc. of Part-Time Residents 4/20/2020 11:00 AM
10 Brewster Ponds Coalition 4/17/2020 5:13 PM
11 Library 4/17/2020 4:29 PM
12 ZBA 4/17/2020 1:17 PM
13 School Committee, Housing Authority, All Citizens Access Committee, Building Needs and
Assessment Committee
4/17/2020 1:02 PM
14 Board of health 4/17/2020 10:24 AM
15 COA 4/17/2020 9:53 AM
16 COA Advisory Board, Vision Planning Committee 4/17/2020 9:32 AM
17 Planning 4/17/2020 8:37 AM
18 Brewster Ladies’ Library Board 4/17/2020 8:33 AM
19 Conservation Commission, Open Space 4/16/2020 1:23 PM
20 Agricultural committee 4/16/2020 11:14 AM
21 Energy, Government Study 4/16/2020 10:58 AM
22 BOH, Water Quality Advisory Committee; Tri Town Treatment Plant Technical Advisory
Committee
4/16/2020 10:24 AM
23 Brewster Vision Planning 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
24 Golf Commission, Human Services 4/16/2020 8:13 AM
25 Brewster vision 4/16/2020 7:32 AM
26 BCAG and then Coastal Committee 4/15/2020 9:40 PM
27 Comprehensive Wastewater Planning 4/15/2020 9:02 PM
28 Open Space , Conservation Trust 4/15/2020 8:25 PM
29 Cultural council 4/15/2020 5:47 PM
30 Brewster Ladies Library finance committee 4/15/2020 2:57 PM
31 ConsComm, CC Pathways 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
32 School committee and coaching 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
33 Planning, CPA, open space 4/13/2020 2:01 PM
Yes No If yes, please
identify which board
or committee:
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes
No
If yes, please identify which board or committee:
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
54 / 82
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
55 / 82
0.00%0
0.00%0
0.00%0
12.80%64
39.20%196
48.00%240
Q24 How old are you?
Answered: 500 Skipped: 100
TOTAL 500
Under 12
years
13 to 17
years
18 to 24
years
25 to 44
years
45 to 64
years
65 years
and over
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Under 12 years
13 to 17 years
18 to 24 years
25 to 44 years
45 to 64 years
65 years and over
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
56 / 82
1 170 132
1 90 110
1 88 99
2 264 151
2 380 253
1 400 270
Q25 How many members of your household, including yourself, are in the
following age ranges?
Answered: 481 Skipped: 119
Total Respondents: 481
#UNDER 12 YEARS DATE
1 2 6/23/2021 7:44 AM
2 0 6/15/2021 10:07 PM
3 2 6/15/2021 2:11 PM
4 0 6/15/2021 12:53 PM
5 2 6/15/2021 9:47 AM
6 1 6/15/2021 8:17 AM
7 1 6/14/2021 7:41 PM
8 0 6/14/2021 7:27 PM
9 1 6/14/2021 7:01 PM
10 2 6/14/2021 6:53 PM
11 3 6/12/2021 10:17 PM
12 1 6/11/2021 9:12 AM
13 1 6/11/2021 9:02 AM
14 0 5/10/2020 8:48 PM
15 8 5/9/2020 11:19 AM
16 0 5/9/2020 10:19 AM
17 0 5/8/2020 4:31 PM
18 1 5/7/2020 6:19 PM
19 2 4/29/2020 9:36 AM
20 0 4/22/2020 5:40 PM
21 0 4/22/2020 4:32 PM
22 2 4/22/2020 4:13 PM
23 0 4/22/2020 12:33 PM
24 2 4/22/2020 12:16 PM
25 0 4/22/2020 11:28 AM
26 0 4/22/2020 10:51 AM
27 0 4/22/2020 10:36 AM
28 2 4/22/2020 10:23 AM
29 1 4/21/2020 5:36 PM
30 0 4/21/2020 2:43 PM
Under 12
years
13 to 17
years
18 to 24
years
25 to 44
years
45 to 64
years
65 years
and over
0
0.4
0.8
1.2
1.6
2
ANSWER CHOICES AVERAGE NUMBER TOTAL NUMBER RESPONSES
Under 12 years
13 to 17 years
18 to 24 years
25 to 44 years
45 to 64 years
65 years and over
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
57 / 82
31 1 4/21/2020 12:03 PM
32 1 4/21/2020 9:41 AM
33 4 4/20/2020 8:07 PM
34 2 4/20/2020 7:32 PM
35 2 4/20/2020 2:49 PM
36 2 4/20/2020 2:36 PM
37 0 4/20/2020 12:43 PM
38 0 4/20/2020 12:32 PM
39 1 4/20/2020 11:17 AM
40 2 4/20/2020 11:10 AM
41 1 4/20/2020 10:37 AM
42 2 4/20/2020 10:31 AM
43 0 4/20/2020 10:27 AM
44 1 4/19/2020 1:45 PM
45 2 4/19/2020 9:27 AM
46 1 4/19/2020 9:10 AM
47 2 4/18/2020 10:29 PM
48 1 4/18/2020 8:18 PM
49 1 4/18/2020 6:44 PM
50 2 4/18/2020 8:56 AM
51 2 4/18/2020 8:04 AM
52 2 4/18/2020 7:29 AM
53 1 4/17/2020 11:21 PM
54 0 4/17/2020 9:55 PM
55 1 4/17/2020 4:07 PM
56 1 4/17/2020 3:46 PM
57 2 4/17/2020 2:24 PM
58 3 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
59 0 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
60 2 4/17/2020 2:07 PM
61 2 4/17/2020 1:51 PM
62 3 4/17/2020 1:17 PM
63 2 4/17/2020 1:05 PM
64 2 4/17/2020 12:41 PM
65 1 4/17/2020 12:37 PM
66 2 4/17/2020 12:35 PM
67 2 4/17/2020 12:27 PM
68 1 4/17/2020 12:26 PM
69 3 4/17/2020 12:18 PM
70 2 4/17/2020 12:14 PM
71 1 4/17/2020 12:11 PM
72 1 4/17/2020 11:54 AM
73 0 4/17/2020 11:48 AM
74 1 4/17/2020 11:20 AM
75 1 4/17/2020 10:51 AM
76 1 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
77 2 4/17/2020 10:18 AM
78 2 4/17/2020 10:12 AM
79 1 4/17/2020 10:09 AM
80 1 4/17/2020 10:06 AM
81 3 4/17/2020 10:00 AM
82 2 4/17/2020 9:47 AM
83 1 4/17/2020 9:44 AM
84 2 4/17/2020 9:40 AM
85 1 4/17/2020 9:37 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
58 / 82
86 2 4/17/2020 9:34 AM
87 2 4/17/2020 9:22 AM
88 2 4/17/2020 9:11 AM
89 1 4/17/2020 9:08 AM
90 1 4/17/2020 9:03 AM
91 1 4/17/2020 8:57 AM
92 1 4/17/2020 8:52 AM
93 2 4/17/2020 8:52 AM
94 1 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
95 2 4/17/2020 8:47 AM
96 2 4/17/2020 8:46 AM
97 0 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
98 1 4/17/2020 8:38 AM
99 4 4/17/2020 8:30 AM
100 1 4/17/2020 8:27 AM
101 2 4/17/2020 8:26 AM
102 1 4/17/2020 8:21 AM
103 1 4/17/2020 8:20 AM
104 2 4/16/2020 4:53 PM
105 1 4/16/2020 3:56 PM
106 1 4/16/2020 2:13 PM
107 2 4/16/2020 1:00 PM
108 0 4/16/2020 12:56 PM
109 3 4/16/2020 11:45 AM
110 0 4/16/2020 9:26 AM
111 0 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
112 0 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
113 2 4/16/2020 8:15 AM
114 2 4/16/2020 7:32 AM
115 0 4/16/2020 6:09 AM
116 0 4/15/2020 9:40 PM
117 0 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
118 1 4/15/2020 6:18 PM
119 4 4/15/2020 5:39 PM
120 1 4/15/2020 4:15 PM
121 2 4/15/2020 3:56 PM
122 0 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
123 0 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
124 0 4/15/2020 2:37 PM
125 0 4/15/2020 2:21 PM
126 2 4/15/2020 1:09 PM
127 1 4/14/2020 5:48 PM
128 2 4/14/2020 3:59 PM
129 1 4/14/2020 3:47 PM
130 0 4/14/2020 3:30 PM
131 0 4/14/2020 1:24 PM
132 0 4/13/2020 2:21 PM
#13 TO 17 YEARS DATE
1 2 6/23/2021 7:44 AM
2 0 6/15/2021 10:07 PM
3 0 6/15/2021 12:53 PM
4 1 6/15/2021 8:17 AM
5 2 6/14/2021 7:41 PM
6 0 6/14/2021 7:27 PM
7 1 6/14/2021 6:53 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
59 / 82
8 1 6/10/2021 8:43 PM
9 0 5/10/2020 8:48 PM
10 0 5/9/2020 10:19 AM
11 0 5/8/2020 4:31 PM
12 1 5/6/2020 11:48 PM
13 1 4/25/2020 10:40 AM
14 1 4/24/2020 12:55 PM
15 0 4/22/2020 5:40 PM
16 0 4/22/2020 4:32 PM
17 0 4/22/2020 12:33 PM
18 0 4/22/2020 11:28 AM
19 0 4/22/2020 10:51 AM
20 0 4/22/2020 10:36 AM
21 1 4/22/2020 6:02 AM
22 0 4/21/2020 2:43 PM
23 1 4/21/2020 8:14 AM
24 1 4/20/2020 6:49 PM
25 1 4/20/2020 1:15 PM
26 0 4/20/2020 12:43 PM
27 0 4/20/2020 12:32 PM
28 1 4/20/2020 11:10 AM
29 0 4/20/2020 10:27 AM
30 1 4/19/2020 1:45 PM
31 1 4/19/2020 9:10 AM
32 1 4/18/2020 3:14 PM
33 1 4/18/2020 9:51 AM
34 2 4/18/2020 9:17 AM
35 0 4/18/2020 8:04 AM
36 1 4/18/2020 4:48 AM
37 1 4/17/2020 11:58 PM
38 1 4/17/2020 11:21 PM
39 0 4/17/2020 9:55 PM
40 1 4/17/2020 2:41 PM
41 0 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
42 1 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
43 0 4/17/2020 2:07 PM
44 1 4/17/2020 12:41 PM
45 1 4/17/2020 12:37 PM
46 2 4/17/2020 12:35 PM
47 1 4/17/2020 12:27 PM
48 1 4/17/2020 12:11 PM
49 1 4/17/2020 11:54 AM
50 0 4/17/2020 11:48 AM
51 1 4/17/2020 11:20 AM
52 1 4/17/2020 10:57 AM
53 1 4/17/2020 10:51 AM
54 1 4/17/2020 10:47 AM
55 2 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
56 2 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
57 1 4/17/2020 10:24 AM
58 1 4/17/2020 10:10 AM
59 1 4/17/2020 10:06 AM
60 1 4/17/2020 9:45 AM
61 1 4/17/2020 9:40 AM
62 1 4/17/2020 9:39 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
60 / 82
63 2 4/17/2020 9:37 AM
64 1 4/17/2020 9:13 AM
65 1 4/17/2020 9:08 AM
66 1 4/17/2020 9:06 AM
67 1 4/17/2020 8:52 AM
68 2 4/17/2020 8:51 AM
69 3 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
70 1 4/17/2020 8:46 AM
71 0 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
72 3 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
73 1 4/17/2020 8:36 AM
74 2 4/17/2020 8:34 AM
75 2 4/17/2020 8:31 AM
76 1 4/17/2020 8:27 AM
77 2 4/17/2020 8:21 AM
78 1 4/17/2020 8:20 AM
79 2 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
80 2 4/16/2020 9:43 PM
81 1 4/16/2020 2:13 PM
82 0 4/16/2020 12:56 PM
83 0 4/16/2020 11:45 AM
84 1 4/16/2020 9:31 AM
85 0 4/16/2020 9:26 AM
86 0 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
87 0 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
88 0 4/16/2020 8:15 AM
89 1 4/16/2020 7:44 AM
90 0 4/16/2020 6:09 AM
91 1 4/15/2020 10:20 PM
92 0 4/15/2020 9:40 PM
93 2 4/15/2020 8:32 PM
94 1 4/15/2020 7:36 PM
95 0 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
96 1 4/15/2020 5:39 PM
97 0 4/15/2020 4:15 PM
98 0 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
99 1 4/15/2020 3:21 PM
100 1 4/15/2020 3:06 PM
101 0 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
102 0 4/15/2020 2:37 PM
103 0 4/15/2020 2:21 PM
104 0 4/15/2020 1:09 PM
105 2 4/14/2020 5:48 PM
106 2 4/14/2020 4:50 PM
107 1 4/14/2020 3:47 PM
108 0 4/14/2020 3:30 PM
109 0 4/14/2020 1:24 PM
110 0 4/13/2020 2:21 PM
#18 TO 24 YEARS DATE
1 0 6/15/2021 10:07 PM
2 0 6/15/2021 12:53 PM
3 0 6/14/2021 7:27 PM
4 1 6/10/2021 8:43 PM
5 0 5/10/2020 8:48 PM
6 0 5/9/2020 10:19 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
61 / 82
7 0 5/8/2020 4:31 PM
8 1 5/6/2020 11:48 PM
9 1 5/3/2020 7:24 PM
10 2 4/30/2020 3:55 PM
11 1 4/25/2020 1:15 PM
12 1 4/24/2020 12:55 PM
13 2 4/24/2020 9:21 AM
14 1 4/23/2020 11:47 AM
15 1 4/23/2020 9:06 AM
16 3 4/22/2020 9:22 PM
17 0 4/22/2020 5:40 PM
18 0 4/22/2020 4:32 PM
19 2 4/22/2020 3:47 PM
20 2 4/22/2020 3:14 PM
21 0 4/22/2020 12:33 PM
22 0 4/22/2020 11:28 AM
23 1 4/22/2020 11:02 AM
24 0 4/22/2020 10:51 AM
25 0 4/22/2020 10:36 AM
26 1 4/22/2020 6:02 AM
27 0 4/21/2020 2:43 PM
28 1 4/21/2020 8:14 AM
29 1 4/20/2020 6:49 PM
30 1 4/20/2020 4:35 PM
31 0 4/20/2020 12:43 PM
32 0 4/20/2020 12:32 PM
33 2 4/20/2020 10:35 AM
34 0 4/20/2020 10:27 AM
35 1 4/19/2020 9:10 AM
36 2 4/18/2020 4:42 PM
37 2 4/18/2020 9:51 AM
38 1 4/18/2020 9:17 AM
39 0 4/18/2020 8:04 AM
40 1 4/17/2020 11:58 PM
41 0 4/17/2020 9:55 PM
42 2 4/17/2020 5:07 PM
43 1 4/17/2020 3:23 PM
44 0 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
45 1 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
46 0 4/17/2020 2:07 PM
47 1 4/17/2020 11:54 AM
48 0 4/17/2020 11:48 AM
49 1 4/17/2020 10:57 AM
50 1 4/17/2020 10:51 AM
51 1 4/17/2020 10:47 AM
52 2 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
53 2 4/17/2020 10:42 AM
54 1 4/17/2020 10:24 AM
55 2 4/17/2020 10:10 AM
56 2 4/17/2020 9:56 AM
57 1 4/17/2020 9:39 AM
58 1 4/17/2020 9:19 AM
59 2 4/17/2020 9:13 AM
60 2 4/17/2020 9:13 AM
61 1 4/17/2020 9:08 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
62 / 82
62 0 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
63 2 4/17/2020 8:37 AM
64 1 4/17/2020 8:20 AM
65 1 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
66 3 4/16/2020 9:43 PM
67 1 4/16/2020 7:41 PM
68 2 4/16/2020 2:13 PM
69 0 4/16/2020 12:56 PM
70 0 4/16/2020 11:45 AM
71 0 4/16/2020 9:26 AM
72 0 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
73 0 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
74 0 4/16/2020 8:15 AM
75 1 4/16/2020 7:44 AM
76 0 4/16/2020 6:09 AM
77 3 4/15/2020 11:04 PM
78 2 4/15/2020 10:20 PM
79 0 4/15/2020 9:40 PM
80 1 4/15/2020 8:45 PM
81 0 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
82 1 4/15/2020 6:18 PM
83 0 4/15/2020 5:39 PM
84 2 4/15/2020 4:45 PM
85 0 4/15/2020 4:15 PM
86 0 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
87 3 4/15/2020 3:35 PM
88 0 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
89 2 4/15/2020 2:38 PM
90 0 4/15/2020 2:37 PM
91 1 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
92 0 4/15/2020 2:21 PM
93 0 4/15/2020 1:09 PM
94 1 4/15/2020 8:35 AM
95 0 4/14/2020 5:48 PM
96 1 4/14/2020 4:50 PM
97 2 4/14/2020 3:30 PM
98 0 4/14/2020 1:24 PM
99 2 4/13/2020 2:21 PM
#25 TO 44 YEARS DATE
1 1 6/23/2021 7:44 AM
2 0 6/15/2021 10:07 PM
3 0 6/15/2021 12:53 PM
4 2 6/15/2021 9:47 AM
5 2 6/15/2021 8:17 AM
6 1 6/14/2021 7:41 PM
7 1 6/14/2021 7:27 PM
8 2 6/14/2021 7:01 PM
9 2 6/14/2021 6:53 PM
10 2 6/12/2021 10:17 PM
11 2 6/12/2021 7:55 AM
12 2 6/11/2021 9:02 AM
13 1 6/10/2021 5:44 PM
14 0 5/10/2020 8:48 PM
15 6 5/9/2020 11:19 AM
16 0 5/9/2020 10:19 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
63 / 82
17 2 5/8/2020 8:51 PM
18 0 5/8/2020 4:31 PM
19 1 5/6/2020 6:42 AM
20 1 5/2/2020 9:32 AM
21 2 4/29/2020 9:36 AM
22 6 4/23/2020 5:59 PM
23 1 4/23/2020 5:58 PM
24 1 4/23/2020 3:59 PM
25 0 4/22/2020 5:40 PM
26 0 4/22/2020 4:32 PM
27 0 4/22/2020 12:33 PM
28 0 4/22/2020 11:28 AM
29 0 4/22/2020 10:51 AM
30 0 4/22/2020 10:36 AM
31 2 4/22/2020 10:23 AM
32 2 4/22/2020 8:13 AM
33 1 4/22/2020 7:45 AM
34 1 4/22/2020 12:31 AM
35 1 4/21/2020 5:29 PM
36 0 4/21/2020 2:43 PM
37 1 4/21/2020 12:03 PM
38 1 4/21/2020 11:13 AM
39 1 4/21/2020 10:32 AM
40 1 4/20/2020 10:17 PM
41 4 4/20/2020 8:07 PM
42 1 4/20/2020 4:35 PM
43 1 4/20/2020 4:15 PM
44 2 4/20/2020 3:39 PM
45 1 4/20/2020 2:36 PM
46 2 4/20/2020 1:42 PM
47 2 4/20/2020 1:18 PM
48 2 4/20/2020 12:57 PM
49 0 4/20/2020 12:43 PM
50 0 4/20/2020 12:32 PM
51 4 4/20/2020 11:10 AM
52 2 4/20/2020 10:35 AM
53 2 4/20/2020 10:31 AM
54 0 4/20/2020 10:27 AM
55 2 4/20/2020 10:20 AM
56 4 4/20/2020 9:56 AM
57 3 4/20/2020 9:45 AM
58 2 4/19/2020 11:01 AM
59 2 4/19/2020 9:52 AM
60 2 4/19/2020 9:27 AM
61 1 4/19/2020 9:10 AM
62 2 4/18/2020 10:29 PM
63 2 4/18/2020 8:18 PM
64 1 4/18/2020 2:02 PM
65 1 4/18/2020 9:51 AM
66 2 4/18/2020 8:04 AM
67 2 4/18/2020 7:29 AM
68 0 4/17/2020 9:55 PM
69 2 4/17/2020 3:23 PM
70 2 4/17/2020 2:41 PM
71 2 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
64 / 82
72 0 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
73 2 4/17/2020 2:07 PM
74 2 4/17/2020 1:51 PM
75 2 4/17/2020 1:17 PM
76 2 4/17/2020 1:05 PM
77 2 4/17/2020 12:41 PM
78 1 4/17/2020 12:37 PM
79 2 4/17/2020 12:26 PM
80 2 4/17/2020 12:18 PM
81 2 4/17/2020 12:16 PM
82 4 4/17/2020 12:14 PM
83 0 4/17/2020 11:48 AM
84 1 4/17/2020 10:51 AM
85 2 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
86 2 4/17/2020 10:18 AM
87 1 4/17/2020 10:12 AM
88 1 4/17/2020 10:06 AM
89 2 4/17/2020 10:00 AM
90 3 4/17/2020 9:56 AM
91 1 4/17/2020 9:47 AM
92 2 4/17/2020 9:44 AM
93 2 4/17/2020 9:39 AM
94 2 4/17/2020 9:22 AM
95 1 4/17/2020 9:13 AM
96 2 4/17/2020 9:11 AM
97 1 4/17/2020 9:03 AM
98 2 4/17/2020 8:52 AM
99 2 4/17/2020 8:51 AM
100 1 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
101 1 4/17/2020 8:47 AM
102 1 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
103 2 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
104 1 4/17/2020 8:38 AM
105 1 4/17/2020 8:36 AM
106 2 4/17/2020 8:30 AM
107 1 4/17/2020 8:27 AM
108 1 4/17/2020 8:26 AM
109 43 4/17/2020 8:25 AM
110 2 4/17/2020 8:20 AM
111 2 4/16/2020 4:53 PM
112 2 4/16/2020 3:56 PM
113 1 4/16/2020 2:13 PM
114 2 4/16/2020 1:00 PM
115 0 4/16/2020 12:56 PM
116 0 4/16/2020 11:45 AM
117 2 4/16/2020 10:11 AM
118 2 4/16/2020 9:58 AM
119 0 4/16/2020 9:26 AM
120 0 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
121 2 4/16/2020 8:57 AM
122 2 4/16/2020 8:39 AM
123 0 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
124 4 4/16/2020 8:15 AM
125 1 4/16/2020 7:43 AM
126 2 4/16/2020 7:32 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
65 / 82
127 2 4/16/2020 6:36 AM
128 0 4/16/2020 6:09 AM
129 1 4/15/2020 9:40 PM
130 2 4/15/2020 8:45 PM
131 0 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
132 1 4/15/2020 5:57 PM
133 6 4/15/2020 5:39 PM
134 6 4/15/2020 4:15 PM
135 2 4/15/2020 3:56 PM
136 0 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
137 2 4/15/2020 3:27 PM
138 0 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
139 2 4/15/2020 2:38 PM
140 0 4/15/2020 2:37 PM
141 1 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
142 1 4/15/2020 2:29 PM
143 0 4/15/2020 2:21 PM
144 1 4/15/2020 1:09 PM
145 2 4/14/2020 5:48 PM
146 2 4/14/2020 3:59 PM
147 2 4/14/2020 3:47 PM
148 0 4/14/2020 3:30 PM
149 1 4/14/2020 2:27 PM
150 0 4/14/2020 1:24 PM
151 0 4/13/2020 2:21 PM
#45 TO 64 YEARS DATE
1 1 6/23/2021 7:44 AM
2 0 6/15/2021 10:07 PM
3 2 6/15/2021 2:11 PM
4 1 6/15/2021 12:53 PM
5 2 6/15/2021 5:16 AM
6 2 6/14/2021 10:02 PM
7 1 6/14/2021 10:00 PM
8 1 6/14/2021 8:27 PM
9 1 6/14/2021 7:41 PM
10 0 6/14/2021 7:27 PM
11 1 6/14/2021 6:53 PM
12 2 6/12/2021 2:56 PM
13 2 6/12/2021 10:54 AM
14 2 6/12/2021 9:13 AM
15 1 6/12/2021 7:51 AM
16 1 6/11/2021 9:12 AM
17 1 6/10/2021 9:39 PM
18 2 6/10/2021 8:43 PM
19 2 6/10/2021 5:44 PM
20 1 5/11/2020 8:57 AM
21 1 5/10/2020 8:48 PM
22 2 5/10/2020 2:35 PM
23 0 5/9/2020 10:19 AM
24 1 5/8/2020 8:51 PM
25 1 5/8/2020 4:31 PM
26 2 5/7/2020 6:19 PM
27 2 5/6/2020 11:48 PM
28 2 5/6/2020 4:39 PM
29 2 5/6/2020 11:27 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
66 / 82
30 2 5/6/2020 6:42 AM
31 2 5/4/2020 7:45 AM
32 2 5/3/2020 7:24 PM
33 1 5/2/2020 9:32 AM
34 1 4/30/2020 3:55 PM
35 2 4/27/2020 2:24 PM
36 2 4/27/2020 2:01 PM
37 1 4/26/2020 5:35 PM
38 1 4/25/2020 3:52 PM
39 2 4/25/2020 10:40 AM
40 2 4/24/2020 3:44 PM
41 2 4/24/2020 12:55 PM
42 1 4/23/2020 3:59 PM
43 2 4/23/2020 11:47 AM
44 1 4/23/2020 9:06 AM
45 2 4/22/2020 9:22 PM
46 2 4/22/2020 5:40 PM
47 0 4/22/2020 4:32 PM
48 2 4/22/2020 4:13 PM
49 2 4/22/2020 3:47 PM
50 1 4/22/2020 3:14 PM
51 2 4/22/2020 12:55 PM
52 0 4/22/2020 12:33 PM
53 1 4/22/2020 12:16 PM
54 2 4/22/2020 11:28 AM
55 0 4/22/2020 10:51 AM
56 0 4/22/2020 10:36 AM
57 1 4/22/2020 10:19 AM
58 1 4/22/2020 10:00 AM
59 2 4/22/2020 8:13 AM
60 1 4/22/2020 6:02 AM
61 2 4/22/2020 12:31 AM
62 2 4/21/2020 5:36 PM
63 1 4/21/2020 2:43 PM
64 1 4/21/2020 1:34 PM
65 2 4/21/2020 12:21 PM
66 2 4/21/2020 12:13 PM
67 1 4/21/2020 12:03 PM
68 1 4/21/2020 9:53 AM
69 1 4/21/2020 9:41 AM
70 2 4/21/2020 8:14 AM
71 1 4/20/2020 10:17 PM
72 2 4/20/2020 7:32 PM
73 2 4/20/2020 6:49 PM
74 1 4/20/2020 5:36 PM
75 1 4/20/2020 4:35 PM
76 1 4/20/2020 4:15 PM
77 2 4/20/2020 3:39 PM
78 2 4/20/2020 2:49 PM
79 1 4/20/2020 2:36 PM
80 2 4/20/2020 1:42 PM
81 2 4/20/2020 1:15 PM
82 1 4/20/2020 12:59 PM
83 0 4/20/2020 12:43 PM
84 0 4/20/2020 12:32 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
67 / 82
85 2 4/20/2020 11:57 AM
86 2 4/20/2020 11:54 AM
87 1 4/20/2020 11:54 AM
88 2 4/20/2020 11:02 AM
89 1 4/20/2020 10:37 AM
90 2 4/20/2020 10:35 AM
91 2 4/20/2020 10:27 AM
92 1 4/20/2020 10:20 AM
93 1 4/20/2020 10:12 AM
94 1 4/20/2020 10:02 AM
95 1 4/20/2020 10:01 AM
96 2 4/20/2020 9:56 AM
97 1 4/20/2020 9:45 AM
98 2 4/20/2020 7:56 AM
99 1 4/19/2020 1:45 PM
100 2 4/19/2020 11:01 AM
101 1 4/19/2020 9:10 AM
102 2 4/18/2020 6:44 PM
103 2 4/18/2020 4:42 PM
104 1 4/18/2020 3:14 PM
105 1 4/18/2020 2:02 PM
106 2 4/18/2020 9:51 AM
107 2 4/18/2020 9:17 AM
108 1 4/18/2020 8:56 AM
109 1 4/18/2020 8:42 AM
110 2 4/18/2020 8:39 AM
111 0 4/18/2020 8:04 AM
112 2 4/18/2020 4:48 AM
113 2 4/17/2020 11:58 PM
114 2 4/17/2020 11:21 PM
115 1 4/17/2020 9:55 PM
116 1 4/17/2020 9:45 PM
117 1 4/17/2020 6:19 PM
118 1 4/17/2020 5:07 PM
119 2 4/17/2020 4:07 PM
120 1 4/17/2020 3:46 PM
121 2 4/17/2020 3:23 PM
122 1 4/17/2020 2:45 PM
123 2 4/17/2020 2:44 PM
124 2 4/17/2020 2:41 PM
125 1 4/17/2020 2:24 PM
126 0 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
127 2 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
128 0 4/17/2020 2:07 PM
129 1 4/17/2020 1:02 PM
130 1 4/17/2020 12:37 PM
131 2 4/17/2020 12:35 PM
132 2 4/17/2020 12:27 PM
133 2 4/17/2020 12:11 PM
134 2 4/17/2020 11:54 AM
135 2 4/17/2020 11:52 AM
136 0 4/17/2020 11:48 AM
137 2 4/17/2020 11:35 AM
138 2 4/17/2020 11:20 AM
139 1 4/17/2020 10:57 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
68 / 82
140 1 4/17/2020 10:51 AM
141 1 4/17/2020 10:47 AM
142 2 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
143 2 4/17/2020 10:42 AM
144 1 4/17/2020 10:24 AM
145 2 4/17/2020 10:12 AM
146 2 4/17/2020 10:10 AM
147 1 4/17/2020 10:09 AM
148 2 4/17/2020 10:08 AM
149 2 4/17/2020 9:56 AM
150 1 4/17/2020 9:47 AM
151 1 4/17/2020 9:45 AM
152 2 4/17/2020 9:40 AM
153 2 4/17/2020 9:39 AM
154 2 4/17/2020 9:37 AM
155 2 4/17/2020 9:34 AM
156 2 4/17/2020 9:19 AM
157 2 4/17/2020 9:13 AM
158 2 4/17/2020 9:13 AM
159 2 4/17/2020 9:08 AM
160 2 4/17/2020 9:06 AM
161 1 4/17/2020 9:03 AM
162 2 4/17/2020 8:57 AM
163 1 4/17/2020 8:52 AM
164 1 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
165 1 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
166 1 4/17/2020 8:47 AM
167 2 4/17/2020 8:46 AM
168 0 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
169 1 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
170 2 4/17/2020 8:37 AM
171 1 4/17/2020 8:36 AM
172 2 4/17/2020 8:34 AM
173 2 4/17/2020 8:31 AM
174 3 4/17/2020 8:30 AM
175 1 4/17/2020 8:27 AM
176 1 4/17/2020 8:26 AM
177 1 4/17/2020 8:26 AM
178 2 4/17/2020 8:21 AM
179 2 4/17/2020 8:20 AM
180 2 4/17/2020 8:19 AM
181 1 4/17/2020 6:31 AM
182 4 4/16/2020 9:43 PM
183 2 4/16/2020 7:41 PM
184 1 4/16/2020 7:05 PM
185 1 4/16/2020 2:45 PM
186 2 4/16/2020 2:13 PM
187 0 4/16/2020 12:56 PM
188 2 4/16/2020 11:45 AM
189 2 4/16/2020 11:34 AM
190 1 4/16/2020 10:11 AM
191 1 4/16/2020 10:11 AM
192 1 4/16/2020 9:51 AM
193 2 4/16/2020 9:31 AM
194 1 4/16/2020 9:26 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
69 / 82
195 2 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
196 2 4/16/2020 8:49 AM
197 1 4/16/2020 8:39 AM
198 1 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
199 2 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
200 1 4/16/2020 8:26 AM
201 2 4/16/2020 8:15 AM
202 2 4/16/2020 7:44 AM
203 2 4/16/2020 7:43 AM
204 1 4/16/2020 7:23 AM
205 2 4/16/2020 7:14 AM
206 0 4/16/2020 6:09 AM
207 2 4/16/2020 6:02 AM
208 1 4/16/2020 12:10 AM
209 2 4/15/2020 11:04 PM
210 2 4/15/2020 10:28 PM
211 2 4/15/2020 10:20 PM
212 1 4/15/2020 9:40 PM
213 2 4/15/2020 8:45 PM
214 2 4/15/2020 8:33 PM
215 1 4/15/2020 8:32 PM
216 1 4/15/2020 7:25 PM
217 0 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
218 1 4/15/2020 6:33 PM
219 2 4/15/2020 6:18 PM
220 2 4/15/2020 5:57 PM
221 10 4/15/2020 5:39 PM
222 3 4/15/2020 5:15 PM
223 2 4/15/2020 4:45 PM
224 4 4/15/2020 4:15 PM
225 2 4/15/2020 3:53 PM
226 0 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
227 1 4/15/2020 3:38 PM
228 2 4/15/2020 3:06 PM
229 1 4/15/2020 2:49 PM
230 1 4/15/2020 2:48 PM
231 2 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
232 0 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
233 2 4/15/2020 2:38 PM
234 0 4/15/2020 2:37 PM
235 2 4/15/2020 2:36 PM
236 2 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
237 3 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
238 2 4/15/2020 2:29 PM
239 0 4/15/2020 2:21 PM
240 1 4/15/2020 1:09 PM
241 1 4/15/2020 12:58 PM
242 2 4/15/2020 9:55 AM
243 2 4/15/2020 9:24 AM
244 2 4/15/2020 8:35 AM
245 1 4/14/2020 7:38 PM
246 2 4/14/2020 6:13 PM
247 0 4/14/2020 5:48 PM
248 2 4/14/2020 4:59 PM
249 2 4/14/2020 4:50 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
70 / 82
250 1 4/14/2020 3:39 PM
251 2 4/14/2020 3:30 PM
252 2 4/14/2020 1:24 PM
253 2 4/13/2020 2:21 PM
#65 YEARS AND OVER DATE
1 1 6/16/2021 9:21 PM
2 2 6/15/2021 10:07 PM
3 2 6/15/2021 7:24 PM
4 1 6/15/2021 2:34 PM
5 1 6/15/2021 12:53 PM
6 2 6/15/2021 12:01 PM
7 1 6/14/2021 10:00 PM
8 2 6/14/2021 7:43 PM
9 0 6/14/2021 7:27 PM
10 2 6/13/2021 5:04 PM
11 2 6/12/2021 10:53 AM
12 1 6/12/2021 7:55 AM
13 1 6/12/2021 7:51 AM
14 2 6/12/2021 7:14 AM
15 2 6/11/2021 9:02 AM
16 2 6/11/2021 12:51 AM
17 2 6/10/2021 9:08 PM
18 1 6/10/2021 5:46 PM
19 1 6/10/2021 5:05 PM
20 1 6/10/2021 4:54 PM
21 0 5/10/2020 8:48 PM
22 2 5/9/2020 2:03 PM
23 2 5/9/2020 11:19 AM
24 1 5/9/2020 10:19 AM
25 0 5/8/2020 4:31 PM
26 1 5/7/2020 6:19 PM
27 1 5/7/2020 4:06 PM
28 2 5/6/2020 12:57 PM
29 2 5/5/2020 11:03 AM
30 1 5/3/2020 12:50 PM
31 2 5/1/2020 11:44 AM
32 2 4/30/2020 10:45 AM
33 1 4/29/2020 8:01 PM
34 2 4/29/2020 7:14 PM
35 2 4/28/2020 3:59 PM
36 1 4/27/2020 3:18 PM
37 1 4/27/2020 2:24 PM
38 1 4/27/2020 12:05 PM
39 1 4/26/2020 9:51 PM
40 2 4/26/2020 5:59 PM
41 1 4/26/2020 5:35 PM
42 1 4/25/2020 3:52 PM
43 2 4/25/2020 3:32 PM
44 2 4/25/2020 1:15 PM
45 2 4/25/2020 1:00 AM
46 1 4/24/2020 9:21 AM
47 1 4/23/2020 5:59 PM
48 2 4/23/2020 4:46 PM
49 1 4/23/2020 3:59 PM
50 2 4/23/2020 10:55 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
71 / 82
51 2 4/23/2020 10:43 AM
52 2 4/23/2020 8:09 AM
53 1 4/23/2020 7:28 AM
54 2 4/22/2020 9:13 PM
55 2 4/22/2020 5:41 PM
56 8 4/22/2020 5:40 PM
57 1 4/22/2020 4:37 PM
58 1 4/22/2020 4:32 PM
59 2 4/22/2020 3:19 PM
60 2 4/22/2020 1:57 PM
61 2 4/22/2020 1:46 PM
62 1 4/22/2020 12:36 PM
63 2 4/22/2020 12:33 PM
64 1 4/22/2020 12:16 PM
65 2 4/22/2020 11:46 AM
66 0 4/22/2020 11:28 AM
67 1 4/22/2020 11:04 AM
68 2 4/22/2020 10:51 AM
69 2 4/22/2020 10:36 AM
70 2 4/22/2020 10:04 AM
71 1 4/22/2020 10:00 AM
72 2 4/22/2020 9:46 AM
73 1 4/22/2020 9:42 AM
74 2 4/22/2020 9:22 AM
75 2 4/22/2020 9:00 AM
76 2 4/22/2020 8:51 AM
77 2 4/22/2020 8:47 AM
78 2 4/22/2020 8:39 AM
79 1 4/22/2020 8:27 AM
80 1 4/22/2020 7:45 AM
81 2 4/22/2020 5:36 AM
82 2 4/21/2020 5:29 PM
83 0 4/21/2020 2:43 PM
84 2 4/21/2020 1:53 PM
85 2 4/21/2020 1:34 PM
86 2 4/21/2020 1:31 PM
87 2 4/21/2020 1:19 PM
88 2 4/21/2020 1:02 PM
89 1 4/21/2020 12:43 PM
90 2 4/21/2020 11:13 AM
91 2 4/21/2020 10:32 AM
92 2 4/21/2020 9:53 AM
93 1 4/20/2020 10:17 PM
94 2 4/20/2020 8:07 PM
95 1 4/20/2020 7:50 PM
96 2 4/20/2020 4:24 PM
97 2 4/20/2020 2:36 PM
98 2 4/20/2020 1:36 PM
99 2 4/20/2020 1:18 PM
100 2 4/20/2020 12:57 PM
101 1 4/20/2020 12:43 PM
102 2 4/20/2020 12:32 PM
103 2 4/20/2020 12:11 PM
104 1 4/20/2020 12:10 PM
105 2 4/20/2020 12:08 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
72 / 82
106 2 4/20/2020 11:54 AM
107 1 4/20/2020 11:38 AM
108 2 4/20/2020 11:17 AM
109 2 4/20/2020 11:14 AM
110 2 4/20/2020 11:10 AM
111 2 4/20/2020 11:00 AM
112 2 4/20/2020 10:44 AM
113 2 4/20/2020 10:31 AM
114 1 4/20/2020 10:28 AM
115 0 4/20/2020 10:27 AM
116 1 4/20/2020 10:18 AM
117 1 4/20/2020 10:12 AM
118 2 4/20/2020 10:04 AM
119 2 4/20/2020 10:00 AM
120 2 4/20/2020 9:57 AM
121 1 4/20/2020 9:54 AM
122 1 4/20/2020 9:50 AM
123 1 4/20/2020 9:45 AM
124 2 4/19/2020 9:58 AM
125 2 4/19/2020 9:52 AM
126 2 4/18/2020 5:49 PM
127 1 4/18/2020 5:22 PM
128 2 4/18/2020 5:06 PM
129 1 4/18/2020 3:14 PM
130 1 4/18/2020 2:02 PM
131 1 4/18/2020 12:52 PM
132 2 4/18/2020 8:46 AM
133 1 4/18/2020 8:42 AM
134 0 4/18/2020 8:04 AM
135 1 4/18/2020 7:29 AM
136 1 4/17/2020 11:21 PM
137 1 4/17/2020 9:55 PM
138 1 4/17/2020 9:45 PM
139 2 4/17/2020 7:46 PM
140 2 4/17/2020 6:30 PM
141 1 4/17/2020 6:19 PM
142 2 4/17/2020 5:13 PM
143 2 4/17/2020 4:29 PM
144 2 4/17/2020 4:03 PM
145 1 4/17/2020 3:53 PM
146 1 4/17/2020 2:45 PM
147 1 4/17/2020 2:31 PM
148 0 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
149 0 4/17/2020 2:21 PM
150 0 4/17/2020 2:07 PM
151 2 4/17/2020 1:02 PM
152 1 4/17/2020 12:30 PM
153 2 4/17/2020 12:14 PM
154 2 4/17/2020 11:52 AM
155 2 4/17/2020 11:49 AM
156 1 4/17/2020 11:48 AM
157 2 4/17/2020 11:36 AM
158 2 4/17/2020 11:08 AM
159 1 4/17/2020 10:57 AM
160 1 4/17/2020 10:47 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
73 / 82
161 1 4/17/2020 10:09 AM
162 1 4/17/2020 10:00 AM
163 2 4/17/2020 9:56 AM
164 3 4/17/2020 9:53 AM
165 1 4/17/2020 9:45 AM
166 2 4/17/2020 9:32 AM
167 2 4/17/2020 9:29 AM
168 2 4/17/2020 9:19 AM
169 2 4/17/2020 9:12 AM
170 2 4/17/2020 8:58 AM
171 1 4/17/2020 8:48 AM
172 0 4/17/2020 8:42 AM
173 1 4/17/2020 8:38 AM
174 2 4/17/2020 8:33 AM
175 2 4/17/2020 8:30 AM
176 1 4/17/2020 8:25 AM
177 1 4/17/2020 8:23 AM
178 2 4/17/2020 8:22 AM
179 1 4/17/2020 8:20 AM
180 2 4/17/2020 7:37 AM
181 2 4/17/2020 7:24 AM
182 1 4/16/2020 9:43 PM
183 2 4/16/2020 8:57 PM
184 2 4/16/2020 7:41 PM
185 2 4/16/2020 4:00 PM
186 1 4/16/2020 2:45 PM
187 1 4/16/2020 1:59 PM
188 1 4/16/2020 1:23 PM
189 2 4/16/2020 1:05 PM
190 1 4/16/2020 12:56 PM
191 2 4/16/2020 12:55 PM
192 2 4/16/2020 11:58 AM
193 0 4/16/2020 11:45 AM
194 2 4/16/2020 11:33 AM
195 1 4/16/2020 11:23 AM
196 2 4/16/2020 11:14 AM
197 2 4/16/2020 11:03 AM
198 1 4/16/2020 10:58 AM
199 2 4/16/2020 10:48 AM
200 2 4/16/2020 10:32 AM
201 2 4/16/2020 10:24 AM
202 2 4/16/2020 10:11 AM
203 2 4/16/2020 9:58 AM
204 2 4/16/2020 9:55 AM
205 2 4/16/2020 9:54 AM
206 1 4/16/2020 9:26 AM
207 1 4/16/2020 9:21 AM
208 0 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
209 1 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
210 2 4/16/2020 9:00 AM
211 2 4/16/2020 8:58 AM
212 2 4/16/2020 8:57 AM
213 1 4/16/2020 8:47 AM
214 1 4/16/2020 8:39 AM
215 1 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
74 / 82
216 0 4/16/2020 8:36 AM
217 2 4/16/2020 8:19 AM
218 1 4/16/2020 8:13 AM
219 2 4/16/2020 7:55 AM
220 2 4/16/2020 7:47 AM
221 2 4/16/2020 7:31 AM
222 1 4/16/2020 6:09 AM
223 2 4/16/2020 5:36 AM
224 1 4/15/2020 11:04 PM
225 0 4/15/2020 9:40 PM
226 2 4/15/2020 9:28 PM
227 1 4/15/2020 9:02 PM
228 2 4/15/2020 8:25 PM
229 2 4/15/2020 7:45 PM
230 1 4/15/2020 7:36 PM
231 1 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
232 2 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
233 2 4/15/2020 6:38 PM
234 1 4/15/2020 6:33 PM
235 2 4/15/2020 6:04 PM
236 1 4/15/2020 5:54 PM
237 2 4/15/2020 5:47 PM
238 2 4/15/2020 5:39 PM
239 1 4/15/2020 5:15 PM
240 1 4/15/2020 4:54 PM
241 1 4/15/2020 4:51 PM
242 2 4/15/2020 4:46 PM
243 2 4/15/2020 4:37 PM
244 1 4/15/2020 4:34 PM
245 2 4/15/2020 4:15 PM
246 1 4/15/2020 3:56 PM
247 1 4/15/2020 3:47 PM
248 1 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
249 2 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
250 1 4/15/2020 3:38 PM
251 2 4/15/2020 3:35 PM
252 2 4/15/2020 3:21 PM
253 2 4/15/2020 3:06 PM
254 2 4/15/2020 2:57 PM
255 1 4/15/2020 2:49 PM
256 1 4/15/2020 2:48 PM
257 0 4/15/2020 2:43 PM
258 2 4/15/2020 2:37 PM
259 2 4/15/2020 2:21 PM
260 0 4/15/2020 1:09 PM
261 1 4/15/2020 12:58 PM
262 1 4/14/2020 7:38 PM
263 0 4/14/2020 5:48 PM
264 2 4/14/2020 4:35 PM
265 1 4/14/2020 3:39 PM
266 0 4/14/2020 3:30 PM
267 0 4/14/2020 1:24 PM
268 2 4/14/2020 7:34 AM
269 0 4/13/2020 2:21 PM
270 1 4/13/2020 2:01 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
75 / 82
9.62%41
28.17%120
13.15%56
10.80%46
11.97%51
20.42%87
44.84%191
Q26 Which age groups (if any) do you feel are not well-served by
Brewster ’s open space and recreational opportunities? (Check all that
apply)
Answered: 426 Skipped: 174
Total Respondents: 426
Under 12
years
13 to 17
years
18 to 24
years
25 to 44
years
45 to 64
years
65 years
and over
All age
groups
are
ll
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Under 12 years
13 to 17 years
18 to 24 years
25 to 44 years
45 to 64 years
65 years and over
All age groups are well-served
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
76 / 82
Q27 Are there any comments you would like to add? Please feel free to
expand on your answers or comment on something we may have missed
that is important to the update of the Open Space and Recreation Plan.
Answered: 175 Skipped: 425
#RESPONSES DATE
1 It’s important to have a balance between business needs and conservation. A balance
between driving and biking. We need more teen recreation programs and we need a community
center at Eddy school for all ages pre-K-100. We need to do better about reaching out to all
groups and populations in the community intentionally to get input, not just those we know and
agree with.
6/23/2021 7:44 AM
2 No 6/16/2021 9:21 PM
3 In general, I believe Brewster has excellent resources and they are well maintained. I believe
that transportation routes that allow for biking is important and support sidewalks along roads
such as Milestone Rd and bike path from CCRT to Linnell/Crosby beaches. I was surprised by
the number of resources listed above that I was unaware of. Definitely, feel that Drummer Boy
Park should be improved to include more options to utilize it especially the trail to wing Island.
6/15/2021 12:01 PM
4 Need better and more rec programs for kids and teens. A community center is key for the
lower cape and Brewster would be a great place to put it.
6/14/2021 7:41 PM
5 We need a pool and a splash pad. And more activities for the middle school aged kids
especially after school. Love this town and it's rec department!!!
6/12/2021 10:17 PM
6 Millstone Road project to include bike lanes is a treacherous idea as the road has too much
traffic especially commercial trucks which tend to travel at high speed. Either divert trucks
away from Millstone or enforce a STRICT speed limit. Millstone project is very sensitive and
decision to go forward will have a lasting affect on Brewster. Either it will prove to be too
dangerous or set the stage to continue to change the landscape of the town which will be
detrimental to our quaint image. Of course- there are too much politics involved as the project
is getting state funding so we are tied to state mandates rather than our own town vision and
history.
6/12/2021 10:54 AM
7 Keep/improve MX on those tennis courts.6/12/2021 10:53 AM
8 Thank you for reaching out for input. This is the first time I have seen this survey. I had not
been aware that it went out. It seems that there are programs for children in town, but they fill
quickly and many children are left out. We also need more facilities in town. I would love to
see a community center for people of all ages, with thoughtful programming that meets the
needs of our citizens. Thanks!
6/12/2021 7:14 AM
9 Keep out small town vibe while making improvements 6/10/2021 9:08 PM
10 Wish I knew more about available resources 6/10/2021 5:46 PM
11 Stop trying to add everything, improve what we have first.6/10/2021 5:44 PM
12 Can we use a grant from the Stanton Foundation for a Dog Park (please see
http://thestantonfoundation.org/canine/dog-parks) with parking, benchs, and 3 fenced areas for
large dogs, small dogs and dogs in training?
5/9/2020 2:03 PM
13 Lower Road could be made a one-way lane for cars, and use the other half for pedestrians and
bicycles.
5/8/2020 8:51 PM
14 I'd just like to reiterate my desire to be able to take my dog to the beach between May 15 and
Sept 15, perhaps before 9 am and after 5 pm. It gets really difficult during the summer to find a
place to take a dog off-lead with beach access completely cut off.
5/8/2020 4:31 PM
15 I think we could do a farmers market with native plant swap/sale. Also maybe an art
competition or something like that. Or a Small fair.
5/7/2020 6:19 PM
16 “Advertise” more about Brewster open spaces.5/6/2020 11:27 AM
17 Open space is important. The stress on the town to maintain it is very important. Keep it
simple. The town can’t afford to pay for it all!!
5/6/2020 6:42 AM
18 hoping we can create a community center with a pool 5/3/2020 7:24 PM
19 A map showing the locations would have been helpful to accompany the list of sites. I also
found the questions to be too general- not sure what directions will come from this survey that
will be useful for future planning. Thanks for the opportunity to share my views.
5/3/2020 12:50 PM
20 The town has done an excellent job preserving open space. The Town needs to consider
buying land for other purposes than just open space protection, such as to build more
community housing so that families and seniors can live in our community.
4/30/2020 3:55 PM
21 I think there should be info for bike riders concerning riding on sidewalks. I have done it myself
to avoid traffic but while walking I have almost been hit by people riding up from behind and not
giving any warning of their approach.
4/30/2020 10:45 AM
22 The walking trails other than Punkhorn and Hay are not long enough. have to go to Nickerson..
that's ok.
4/29/2020 8:01 PM
23 Please consider completing the sidewalk on 6A in Easy Brewster.4/28/2020 3:59 PM
24 The phrasing of several questions ("What prevents you from....") appears to reflect a bias in
the questions towards responses that would necessitate action towards the items selected.
There was no option of "I am satisfied" in many questions. I would re-do those questions to get
a more balanced outcome in the survey results. The Town acquired many beautiful and diverse
areas back in the 1980's and 1990's to preserve the rural character and natural history and
4/27/2020 2:01 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
77 / 82
wildlife of the Town, and its water supply. This survey seems to reflect a boas towards the
"development" and suburbinization of these areas with things such as sidewalks, lights,
outdoor events, storage of kayaks and boats (I own two--and I store them on my own property,
no the Town's land). These kinds of things may be appropriate at, for example, the Drummer
Boy, but would not be appropriate in the Punkhorn, or at Eagle Point, or Spruce Hill, which are
better suited to passive recreation and open space. A better recreational focus might be
towards a Community Center like those in Harwich or Chatham, but those are big ticket items
that our Town Meeting and Selectmen / FinComm may not support. Thank you for your efforts
and to the volunteers that spend their time working on this update.
25 I'm concerned about the water quality of our ponds.4/26/2020 5:35 PM
26 I would like to see coordination between the Town's Open Space Plan and the community
housing needs.
4/24/2020 3:44 PM
27 Doing this survey has made me aware of a lot of ponds and recreation areas that I'm unfamiliar
with, even as a Brewster native! I will be researching these places to visit in the months
ahead. Brewster is a special town and I appreciate all of the work of our municipal staff and
private groups do to maintain our open spaces. Thank you.
4/23/2020 5:58 PM
28 Adults and older adults need indoor facilities for programs and exercise activities...long over
due
4/23/2020 4:46 PM
29 A child ought to be able to walk and/or ride a bicycle (skateboard) to school and other public
places. Land "ownership" is a concept that can lead to exclusion and degradation of natural
resources. Access should be open / non-restrictive. Let's make sure we keep trash and toilet
facilities reasonably available.
4/23/2020 3:59 PM
30 Upgrade the C.O.A./Community Center facilities similar to Harwich.4/23/2020 10:55 AM
31 It’s hard for us to understand all of the construction of new homes (Abby Road and now there
is development going on right next to that). Why do we allow all of this. There will be no where
for animals. To go down to Robbins hill mants landing, it is atrocious! The size of those homes
being built there is so painful. Why are there not more restrictions on all of the construction?
My only other desire is for more sidewalks on busy roads to allow more walk ability.
4/23/2020 9:06 AM
32 Sidewalks system to allow citizens to safely walk in neighborhoods, particularly allowing
people to access Rail Trail and Route 6A.
4/23/2020 8:09 AM
33 Indoor swimming pool would be nice 4/22/2020 9:22 PM
34 I am writing out of concern, re: vehicle access to Sheep Pond via the walking trail from the
R137 Rail Trail parking lot / Gull’s way. I enjoy walking access to Sheep Pond several times
every month. But each time there are either vehicles parked on the dirt down ramp to the pond
access with tires in the water or deeply rutted tire tracks on the slope. And as well, tire tracks
and ruts above the slope from vehicles turning and parking. Is there any preventative measure
that can be taken to limit vehicles on the walking path and/or preventing vehicles direct access
to the water of Sheep Pond? Not only is there trash and litter, but I find it disturbing to have
vehicles in the area and often blocking access to the Pond. Can a barrier natural or made-
made be placed to limit vehicle access: 1. On/from the walking trail, And/or 2. to limit vehicle
access to the pond at a reasonable conservation distance? Perhaps, as well, a sign
suggesting vehicle access to Sheep Pond is available via Fisherman’s Landing. If I can assist
with a solution, I would be glad to help. • Not wanting to walk with cars and trucks in a
woodland setting, • Not wanting to access Sheep Pond with vehicles in or around the water.
Thank you. Sincerely, Patrick Otton 285 Sheep Pond Dr 617-244-2761
4/22/2020 9:13 PM
35 I have concern about the cutting down of trees in Brewster. Are permits required? We have
many beautiful old trees in Brewster that need to be honored as treasures.
4/22/2020 4:37 PM
36 all are served at present to some extent 4/22/2020 3:19 PM
37 It would be nice if there were more parking for residence with stickers at beaches, but that
defeats the purpose of open space. Maybe more enforcement of people with no stickers would
help?
4/22/2020 3:14 PM
38 There are so many things here! Our property taxes are too high, so we can't spend much more
money. Town should probably (1) maintain focus on the preferred theme of being a
conservation town and multi-gen/family friendly (2) do some overall planning, looking at all
available land to create a concept plan of what may be most appropriate where, then over the
next 20 years partner with donors and interested groups that can raise the money for
appropriate facilities and (3) only use tax money for the backbone for all this to work - planning
coordination, eco-friendly transportation, signage, water fountains, publicity and partnership
management.
4/22/2020 12:55 PM
39 Better indoor senior activity center, could be inter generational similar to Harwich 4/22/2020 11:04 AM
40 Long Pond needs more oversite during the boating season. There is no monitoring when in use
by large loud ocean boats, who come in to "clean out." These events are common at the end
of the day during the summer and in the Fall at the end of the boating season. Also, lots of
paddleboarders are not wearing life jackets. Therefore, it would be great to work with Harwich
to help monitor the pond more regularly. I would recommend that the pond needs ramp
monitors during the heavy boating times. Also, a full-time safety patrol is important. We do not
necessarily need to have the police or a harbor master, but someone well trained in boating
and emergency care, and has quick access to appropriate resources in both towns. Thank you
4/22/2020 11:02 AM
41 I don't know how well served different populations are 4/22/2020 7:45 AM
42 Please get that dog park built! And have it be handicapped accessible.4/21/2020 1:34 PM
43 I appreciate the efforts of the committees and individuals behind this plan, and am very
pleased with the recreational opportunities and activities in Brewster. More live music would be
a good thing.
4/21/2020 12:13 PM
44 We greatly appreciate the many ”informal” recreational opportunities that are available in
Brewster.
4/21/2020 12:06 PM
45 I don't know enough about what activities are available to young people but understand that the
cost of living in Brewster is out of range for most young people.
4/21/2020 11:13 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
78 / 82
46 For our purposes, the current program is wonderful. Would love to have easier access to
information, and better access by bike. I was not aware of half of the areas mentioned in the
survey, and we've been part of Brewster for 35 years, via Eastham for generations.
4/20/2020 4:35 PM
47 Keep up the good work 4/20/2020 12:57 PM
48 I haven't really used many of Brewster's facilities--mainly beach or pod swimming and hiking--
so please don't take my responses as average.
4/20/2020 12:11 PM
49 Pathway signs often lead to dead ends.4/20/2020 12:08 PM
50 Urgently need more attention to bicycle safety esp on Rail Trail-road intersections. Also need
to reenforce that cars need to yield when obstacle is on their side of the road. This is rarely
followed, leading to other side cars needing to go off the road.
4/20/2020 11:38 AM
51 We have owned property in Brewster for almost 50 years. We have watched it’s decline as a
welcoming town to one that is sorely split . The attitude of full time residents has become
almost hostile. Their efforts to block public access to beach areas is just one small example of
this “mine” attitude. It seems as if the part time residents are there as a financial means to
their end . You must pay your taxes but please don’t feel you are entitled to any of benefits
shared by the full time residents.
4/20/2020 11:10 AM
52 i love it here. I think we need accessible indoor options for people other than elderly so families
can return here. Winters are challenging.
4/20/2020 10:37 AM
53 I have been here 20 years and don't feel I have a good handle on what trails and areas are
available. Would even pay for a brochure. I
4/20/2020 10:35 AM
54 Long pond boat ramp needs enlargement for parking. Better vehicle flow plan.4/20/2020 10:31 AM
55 Shellfishing information is difficult to follow. Areas are not well marked outside of summer
areas. Regulations are very difficult to understand.
4/20/2020 10:27 AM
56 More hiking trails, connect trails and beaches, improve maps. Why not try a hiking trail from
the Orleans to the Dennis line along the shore line? More trails on conservation and resource
protection lands should be created, Thank you.
4/20/2020 10:20 AM
57 family members who don't reside year round should not have to pay such a high parking fee at
beaches when they visit
4/20/2020 10:02 AM
58 i appreciate the thoughtfulness of this survey. ed 4/20/2020 10:01 AM
59 The benefits of a dog park are very well established. Please just get it done!4/20/2020 7:56 AM
60 There is a great stream from Eddy school toward town hall and beyond which could have a
great trail.
4/19/2020 9:58 AM
61 A community center where kids and adults can go is key! Modeled after Chatham or
Harwich...fitness, courts, etc. Thank you! Our community does a great job!!
4/19/2020 9:27 AM
62 What a badly and deceitfully designed survey. Its only purpose is to get stats that local Pols
and special-interest nut-job groups will use to justify higher taxes.
4/18/2020 5:06 PM
63 Can we increase the land bank contribution as Brewster residents to our taxes to preserve
more open space?
4/18/2020 2:02 PM
64 let us stay as "sign free" as possible.4/18/2020 12:52 PM
65 Consider residents needs, stop increasing taxes without resident benefits.4/18/2020 9:17 AM
66 kids with disabilities are NOT well served, families have to go elsewhere or not participate at
all (especially those kids with odd behaviors....)
4/18/2020 8:56 AM
67 I love our town, I dont like to see a lot of change, I enjoy the natural resources, there are still
many that I havent explored yet. I would like to help maintain our natural resources. I would
like the "bedroom" town feel of Brewster to be maintained. I dont want Brewster to become
"commercial" and built up. I appreciate what we have and would like it to be maintained.
4/18/2020 8:39 AM
68 We understand that Brewster is crowded in -season and that tourists are important. That said,
we could have 50 beaches and it wouldn’t matter if we can’t access them. Perhaps Brewster
has to cap the number of nonresident or weekly, daily beach passes (Or limit parking before 10
or 11am to residents) so residents have access to the beaches.
4/17/2020 11:21 PM
69 Town does well More signage would help 4/17/2020 6:30 PM
70 My kids used to do the Brewster rec program, play baseball and use playgrounds. They were
very important. We want to keep Brewster as a family town and keep it young. My kids are in
college now but I am very active and want improved fitness areas.
4/17/2020 5:07 PM
71 Appreciate Rec staff with its work to expand pickleball.4/17/2020 4:29 PM
72 Safer access by biking or walking with paths and sidewalks and signage. I don’t know of all the
rec areas in brewster I wish I did. I walk 3 plus miles a day with my dog on the shoulder of the
road bc there are no sidewalks or bike paths for walkers joggers and bicyclists. I stop going to
wing island bc of that museum...this is private property... buy a ticket, please make access to
wing island...one of my most favorite thing to do turned sour by those Museum People denying
access. Sad. We need access to wing island!
4/17/2020 3:53 PM
73 We need an indoor pool. It is multigenerational. There is a lot of focus on really young
(Brewster Rec) and really old (pickle ball) not much for those in the middle
4/17/2020 3:46 PM
74 I would like the sidewalk on 6A extended near JT’s. There is a portion from Nelson street to
JT’s that is at or below street level. It is very dangerous for families walking to JT’s. Cars are
to busy looking at other cars pulling out from Ocean Edge and I have seen them go up on the
sidewalk area to avoid having to stop for cars turning in.
4/17/2020 3:23 PM
75 PLEASE provide teenager and young adult activities!! We go to other towns for skateboarding
and events.
4/17/2020 2:41 PM
76 Inter neighborhood trails would be ideal to avoid having to walk or ride on heavy traffic roads
like 6A, 137, 124, underpass, millstone, etc. Particularly, off street access to the elementary
schools would be great.
4/17/2020 2:24 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
79 / 82
77 I would love to see a Community Center for the residents of Brewster. It would be nice to have
programs and activities for all ages and abilities, including those that are handicapped.
Physical activities, health classes (yoga, meditation, nutrition) Arts, crafts, educational etc.
4/17/2020 2:21 PM
78 Sidewalks along the entirety of 6A, so we can walk to Drummer Boy Park.4/17/2020 1:17 PM
79 No 4/17/2020 1:02 PM
80 Would love a year round pool - maybe both an outdoor and indoor. I think the sidewalk
improvement was great. Love the solar warnings/lights along bike trail for safety.
4/17/2020 12:35 PM
81 Keep costs down so taxes do not increase. There is already a lot of recreation in Brewster for
those who seek it. Thank you
4/17/2020 12:30 PM
82 Need town boat ramp to access bay ocean waters.4/17/2020 12:14 PM
83 Nice survey, however it was a bit long. A warning up front of expected time to fill it out and
number of remaining questions would help.
4/17/2020 11:54 AM
84 would love pickle ball, and swings available for adults to use.. would like to see boardwalk wing
island from Drummer Park.. would like to see town kayak storage on linell landing
4/17/2020 11:52 AM
85 Older folks would like safe places to walk/no bikes/no uneven paths/shade where possible 4/17/2020 11:48 AM
86 We spent millions on overbuilt police and fire and 0 on a community center. Harwich here I
come
4/17/2020 11:08 AM
87 I am sorry to say that other than walking on nature trails, I don’t ever look to the Town for Adult
Recreational activities. I would welcome a running track, fitness trail, indoor pool. Thank you
for asking!
4/17/2020 10:57 AM
88 No 4/17/2020 10:45 AM
89 The survey is great because it is extensive, but it is cumbersome and too long to get a good
representation of the public to complete it. Also, when you asked what I had done in the last
year, it didn't always reflect what I feel is important. When my kids were younger we visited a
lot more recreation places a lot more frequently than we do now.
4/17/2020 10:24 AM
90 Off season an outdoor ice rink would be great. Open access to boating beaches and ponds is
key. We come to the cape to access the water. More upbeat summer concerts which appeal
across age groups would be wonderful
4/17/2020 10:10 AM
91 Changing things up is good. Frequent crap/antique fairs at Drummer Boy just dont cut it. We
often go to events in Chatham, but rarely in Brewster anymore.
4/17/2020 10:08 AM
92 pickleball expanding at the fastest rate out of any sport in the country.....except for here in
brewster...residents have to go to other towns...
4/17/2020 10:06 AM
93 I serve the Open Space Committee in my home town. We no longer rent our Brewster home
and spend a greater amount of time there. I’d be willing to serve a committee if feasible
4/17/2020 9:56 AM
94 More creativity, perhaps, in thinking about how open spaces could be used all year long by
those of all ages.
4/17/2020 9:53 AM
95 The town should make known these areas...I am not aware of a number of the areas on hour
list. I would be interested in checkpoint new places, trails, parks, areas, etc. if I knew they
existed and how to get there.
4/17/2020 9:40 AM
96 More activities in winter would be nice.4/17/2020 9:39 AM
97 Indoor swimming pool.4/17/2020 9:34 AM
98 Need for Community Center to centralize and coordinate activities and opportunities 4/17/2020 9:32 AM
99 Plenty of opportunities for school age children but not much for younger children. We would
love a toddler play time twice a week at an indoor facility.
4/17/2020 9:22 AM
100 Parking violations should be more aggressively monitored so those of us who pay to park at
our own beaches can use them. Dogs should be allowed outside of Memorial Day to Labor Day
at all beaches and some beaches year round.
4/17/2020 9:13 AM
101 If it were available to y ear round residents in the off season, a pool would be wonderful to use.
We have called ocean edge (you need a membership, which is very expensive) and Brewster
green (you need to commit to a time share). These sites are empy for the most part for 8-9
months a year, A reasonable fee for families to use would be wonderful.
4/17/2020 9:03 AM
102 no 4/17/2020 8:58 AM
103 Need more indoor pickleball courts 4/17/2020 8:57 AM
104 Number one most important thing is making Brewster a pedestrian-friendly town. Sidewalks
everywhere and bike lanes on busy roads.
4/17/2020 8:52 AM
105 More pet friendly walking trails as opposed to a dedicated dog park such as Thompson’s fields
in Harwich. Community center with indoor programs such as toddler play time. Brewster has
adequate sports fields and sports recreation areas. The town needs to make adjustments to
attract young year round residents that will be raising families.
4/17/2020 8:52 AM
106 Would love to see some pocket neighborhood parks - there are no “neighborhood s” or area /
localized parks with open space or playgrounds . Also sidewalks on even major roadway such
as RT137, Freeman’s way , millstone , RT 124 most of 6a, And Satucket would encourage
people to exercise locally . Sadly most residents can’t even walk your neighborhood safely or
enjoy your immediate area of Brewster without hopping in a car and driving to 6A for a
playground or to get to bike trail. Unfortunately, we usually find as a family we head out of
Brewster to go outdoors , because we are already in the car . Brewster has a lot of younger
families compared to other lower Cape towns but only 3 playgrounds ., and 2 of them
understandably can’t be used during the school day . West Brewster has a lot of year round
families and no sidewalks , bike trails or playgrounds . we Would love the town to encourage
families to stay active ( walking riding bikes , running , and hiking) and be able to make these
things safely accessible. The town has done a wonderful job of acquiring conservation land
4/17/2020 8:48 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
80 / 82
throughout the town . It would be nice to allow residents to be able to enjoy small pocket parks
.
107 Sidewalks on 137, Freemans and Millstone would be amazing!4/17/2020 8:42 AM
108 Keep alternative energy sources off Brewster Lands. Signage to alter drivers that bay beach
parking lots are full. Better or improved blocking off of Freeman's Fields to prevent the
occasional person from driving onto our fields.
4/17/2020 8:37 AM
109 No 4/17/2020 8:34 AM
110 Having a parent with mobility issues who wants to watch grandchildren play sports, some of
the fields are hard to navigate.
4/17/2020 8:30 AM
111 There is nothing for children/teens in wheelchairs to do in brewster. They cannot get around.
No activities are modified to include them. Especially teens in wheelchairs. No accessible mini
golf. No Frisbee golf. The beaches should have accessible walkways to water. Brewster Rec
should have more inclusive fun activities.Almost all camps in brewster are unaccesible for
child/teen in a wheelchair.I am sure this applies to adults as well.Someone with limited mobility
does not have many options in Brewster.
4/17/2020 8:27 AM
112 Community Center 4/17/2020 8:26 AM
113 Do better maintenance on the tennis courts by Stony Brook School, especially, weed control,
cracks in court mediation and pruning of rose bushes around courts.
4/17/2020 8:25 AM
114 We need a community center for the teens and kids (as well as adults). The playgrounds at
both schools are lacking (look at Orleans as a model). Need more indoor activities in the cooler
months.
4/17/2020 8:21 AM
115 Clean up of liter at Bakers Pond should be done on a regular basis during the summer. It is an
area that gets ignored and becomes littered with beer cans and trash during the summer
4/17/2020 7:37 AM
116 COA building is depressing and outdated. I cringe when I have to go into that building for
anything. We need a community center like Harwich for all age groups.
4/16/2020 8:57 PM
117 Sidewalks please!4/16/2020 4:53 PM
118 A dog park is nice, but my dog really needs to walk on a trail, not play in a park. He is old, but
when I get a younger version, I would like trail accessible.
4/16/2020 2:45 PM
119 Would like to have bike-only access to Nickerson SP from Freemans Way 4/16/2020 2:13 PM
120 Habitat restoration to benefit species that require field and meadow habitats.4/16/2020 1:23 PM
121 Many of the additions and suggestions would benefit all community members.
Intergenerational recreational opportunities should be the goal. A pool would benefit infants,
school age, teens, adults and seniors. The town currently does a fine job maintaining the
recreational locations around town. While surveys and feasibility studies are done it would be
nice to have collaboration between the town and local businesses where available whether
through classes or indoor pool availability.
4/16/2020 1:00 PM
122 people here are very spoiled. go move to NY or NJ and see if your taxes pay for anything even
close to what Brewster has.
4/16/2020 11:45 AM
123 We have only lived here for 1 year and we are still learning about the town. Would love a
newcomers guide to Brewster.
4/16/2020 11:33 AM
124 Believe Dog park as currently planned is excessive and too costly. Need to review size of
other facilities on and off cape. None are as large as Brewster is currently planning. Also no
clear plan for operation and maintenance.
4/16/2020 11:23 AM
125 Enforcement needed for dog/animal regulations on beaches, flats, and trails.4/16/2020 11:14 AM
126 The town seems to ignore the Elephant In The Room, namely Nickerson State Park and its
own Landings. Why not create more access to both via bike?
4/16/2020 10:32 AM
127 thanks for asking; Open space preservation, natural characteristics and recreation
opportunities are some of the key reasons that keeps Brewster "Brewster"
4/16/2020 10:24 AM
128 Thanks for asking all these questions! Good luck.4/16/2020 10:11 AM
129 enforcement of speeding regulations on main roads so biking would be safer 4/16/2020 10:11 AM
130 We need a dog park 4/16/2020 10:11 AM
131 I am in favor of building a community center like the one in Harwich.4/16/2020 9:58 AM
132 Please give thought to the range of safety concerns related to recreational marijuana use 4/16/2020 9:54 AM
133 Need a Dog Park NOW!!4/16/2020 9:51 AM
134 All recreation sites, beaches etc should have uniformed signage so everyone knows town
owned property. Secondly do not construct any new areas without taking care of needs in
existing areas
4/16/2020 9:31 AM
135 All activities should be monitored and rules of engagement enforced. In order for this to be
successful, support must be provided to BPD and Natural Resource officers. Otherwise, those
that abuse the rules ruin it for others.
4/16/2020 9:29 AM
136 need sidewalk access to properties 4/16/2020 9:19 AM
137 Provide a combined recreation pamphlet with hiking trails, ponds, beaches and parking 4/16/2020 8:57 AM
138 Ticks and other disease carrying insects need to be better controlled 4/16/2020 8:49 AM
139 A bay beach to let your dog go to in the summer. Just one beach would be wonderful....even
off peak hours would be great
4/16/2020 8:39 AM
140 Golf and sailing are special interest - focus on making ALL spaces freely open and available to
ALL citizens. Cut back on restrictions!!
4/16/2020 8:26 AM
141 When answering these questions are we to consider family who visit often?4/16/2020 8:23 AM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
81 / 82
142 I would like to see Brewster save as much open space as possible. Brewster's beauty is in its
rural natural settings. Restrict gas stations like Cumberland Farms which is a blight on Main
Street. Do not let the Mobil station on Main Street near Point of Rocks Road turn into another
Cumbie. Improve zoning to prevent gigantic houses from being built in modest neighborhoods
like the 8,000 sq. ft. house recently built on Cathedral Road. Help farmers maintain their
agricultural status and not sell land for development. Maintain the beautiful vistas that
Brewster is known for. Make Brewster the ultimate hiking, nature and biking destination. Assist
non-profit orgs like BCT in purchasing and maintaining conservation lands, encourage
easement donations. Zoning, zoning and more zoning to restrict cul-de-sac developments that
don't belong in Brewster.
4/16/2020 7:43 AM
143 We need a pool 4/16/2020 7:32 AM
144 Focus on all future land purchases should be limited to well water protection or affordable
housing only. We have plenty of conservation land that has already been taken off the tax
rolls.
4/16/2020 7:31 AM
145 Golf course should be privatized.4/16/2020 12:10 AM
146 I Think you are doing a good job. I was impressed with the online map and want to explore
some trails this coming summer.
4/15/2020 11:04 PM
147 Bike routes along Run Hill Rd and Great Fields Rd may be connected across the recycling
facility at Eph's Cartway. Town policy should favor preservation of the Girl Scout Camp on
Long Pond, Camp Mitton, bordering Slough and Walkers Ponds, and the Bay-side youth camp
north of the intersection of Route 6A and Millstone Rd.
4/15/2020 9:02 PM
148 Best things about Brewster: Cape Cod Rail Trail, Drummer Boy Park/Farmer's Market, Bay
Beaches, Captain's Golf Course, 6A Businesses/sidewalks. Everything you do should consider
maximizing these assets.
4/15/2020 8:45 PM
149 Stop trying to develop everything. Paines creek is a good example of how we have ruined our
natural beauty. Why do we have to continue to develop everything- it’s nature!
4/15/2020 8:33 PM
150 Great survey. I believe your planning also has to include how people engage with Nickerson
State Park which is an extraordinary asset in the town. Much of our outdoor engagement in
Brewster takes place there. I understand it is a state property but even so it is not seperate
from how many of us engage with nature and pursue recreation.
4/15/2020 8:32 PM
151 Why can't you open up some spaces to bow hunting? Lyme disease in a huge issue. Deer are
getting hit by cars or eaten by coyotes. What is wrong humans eating a few deer?
4/15/2020 8:13 PM
152 All the Brewster beaches get overcrowded during the summer. The town should consider a
mechanism for limiting access or web camera or other ways for residents and visitors to know
parking availability and reducing traffic and overcrowding.
4/15/2020 7:36 PM
153 I moved here because of the recreational opportunities. Very pleased 4/15/2020 7:23 PM
154 I believe we should purchase as much conservation land as we possibly can, limiting housing
development as stringently as possible. My priority is wildlife — buy land and just leave it
alone. Wooded lands are critical to Brewster’s character. I wish we could halt all new
construction, forever!
4/15/2020 6:38 PM
155 more dog friendly walking trials with improved signage, poop bag dispensers and waste
receptacles on site to encourage pick up.
4/15/2020 6:33 PM
156 Preserve rural feel by limiting new house construction to extent possible 4/15/2020 6:04 PM
157 Brewster is so beautiful the way it is and should be enjoyed as simply as possible. It is very
hard to leave things alone but that should be considered. Upkeep for current projects like the
herring run etc. is good. But more active recreations use isn't good as it makes Brewster less
unique and more suburban.
4/15/2020 4:59 PM
158 Make Brewster a home and a destination for those who love to bicycle. Fewer cars on the
roads— more bikes.
4/15/2020 4:51 PM
159 Lights at Millstone and 6A and in front of Cobies at 6A 4/15/2020 3:53 PM
160 Provide more sidewalks to Grist Mill. Outlaw LOUD ILLEGAL VEHICLES on the Cape 4/15/2020 3:43 PM
161 We should eliminate one golf course and use that space for other recreational activities,
affordable housing or animal habitat.
4/15/2020 3:43 PM
162 We need indoor pickle ball facility/ time for the off season 4/15/2020 3:35 PM
163 dog parks! more parking at Saint's Landing!4/15/2020 3:06 PM
164 Does it address acknowledging/partnering with nonprofits and state agencies? It should......4/15/2020 2:43 PM
165 I hope we can retain the Brewster Whitecaps and have a team in the Cape Cod Baseball
League. That is my favorite thing to do in the summer, more than going to the beach or a pond
or biking. I'd like to see the Town work with the club and the Stony Brook School to make that
area with the field, the playground, basketball court, and bleachers as nice as possible. It is a
big draw in the summer and other towns continue to make field and ball park improvements to
improve the experience for fans. It's also one of the truly intergenerational activities we have in
Town where you see people of all ages from families with young children to seniors all having a
good time. It also draws hundreds of people for one game compared to how many other people
use different recreation options in a month or even in a year.
4/15/2020 2:38 PM
166 Thank you for survey 4/15/2020 2:34 PM
167 Question 26 is an important one. A lot of focus is given to programs for children and seniors.
What about working adults? A community center with after work hours for adults or recreational
programming for working adults should be considered. The beauty of Open Space is that it is
always open for Working Adults. Improve and add more trails for them. Thank you for all the
work you do to keep Brewster so special.
4/15/2020 2:29 PM
168 No 4/15/2020 1:09 PM
169 This survey assumes folks know the "names" of open space areas. Street address information
would be helpful.
4/15/2020 12:58 PM
Brewster Open Spac e and Rec reation Plan
82 / 82
170 The sidewalks along 6A are an outstanding addition to the township, that really improves
accessibility. Thank you!
4/15/2020 9:24 AM
171 I feel that improvements in all these areas are important and I would love to see a community
center in this town that would benefit all ages and interests, however I don't see any of this
happening unless this town figures out a way to welcome new business opportunities and other
ways of funding beside raising taxes on the residents. It is hard enough already to live here as
a young adult. I would like to see this town encourage new and bigger business into areas
suited to it while still keeping the "Olde Cape Cod" theme we all love. I think it can be done.
4/15/2020 8:35 AM
172 Glitch in survey. Some of the questions, at least 3, I was unable to enter anything under
comments, so I had to change my answers in order to proceed. Frustrating.
4/14/2020 6:13 PM
173 There have been many improvements in Brewster over the years. Town funds will be depleted
due to Covid 19, so have the funds of the people who live hear. Brewster doesn't do a very
good job at bringing in new business, but needs to find other ways to fund projects. I would like
to see a moratorium on new projects for a few yrs until the town can live within its' means.
4/14/2020 4:59 PM
174 Please keep working hard to offer and care for great recreation options in our beautiful town!4/14/2020 3:39 PM
175 more emphasis on habitat and natural resource protection and less on public access.4/14/2020 1:24 PM
MAP NOTES:
PRIMARY SENSITIVITY (1,000-FOOT PROTECTIVE BUFFER ZONE):
This area generally includes all areas within 1,000 feet of a marine ecosystem, particularly those
areas within close proximity to fresh water. These areas have a high probability of containing
prehistoric archaeological sites. The four most important areas for management consideration
based upon available data are: Namskaket Creek and marsh, the Cape Cod Bay shoreline, Stony
Brook Valley, and the major ponds of the Herring River Drainage System.
SECONDARY SENSITIVITY (500-FOOT PROTECTIVE BUFFER ZONE):
This area generally includes all areas within 500 feet of a water body greater than 3 acres in size
that are not a part of the Herring River or Stony Brook drainage systems. These areas are likely
to contain prehistoric archaeological sites, particularly is they intersect areas of primary
sensitivity.
TERTIARY SENSITIVITY:
This area generally includes all areas within a protective zone that skirts wetlands of any size and
water bodies less than three acres in size. Developments that may disrupt the natural character
or inhibit public safety are prohibited in this protective zone. The delineation of the protection
zone is defined in the Town of Brewster’s Wetlands Conservancy District Bylaw and are subject
to the regulations that constitute the Wetlands Protection act, MGL.c.131, --40, as amended.
Archaeological sites may exist within these environments.
Maps originally produced in 1993, with revision/updates in 1996 and 1998, by the Cape Cod
Commission.
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
1
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
2 1
PINE POND
0 Dennis Line
3.500
acres
Pondshore
RR
Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching, Fishing,
Swimming, Canoeing
Good
Natural
Undeveloped,
accessed from
neighboring town.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
Tax Title Taking
11-10-2006
To Cons Com
7-26-2007
Permanent CR Held
By Brewster
Conservation Trust
7-26-2007
6 14
0 MAIN STREET
(west end of saltmarsh)
96.500
acres
Saltmarsh
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Access from
former Sea Street.
Parking, paved
access, bridge to
other side of
Quivett Creek
YES Paved path is
accessible.
6-24-1970
Permanent CR Granted
to Commonwealth Of
MA
8-30-2004
Doc. 978,472
6 15
INDIAN SPRING
CONSERVATION AREA
0 MAIN STREET
(2 parcels)
2.220
acres
Natural Spring,
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RM
Walking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Limited, provides
access to salt
marsh
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
3/29/1979
Town funds
Town Conservation
Land
6 43 0 WING ISLAND
122.600
acres
Pine/Oak
Woodlands,
Beach
Saltmarsh
RR
Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching,
Swimming
Good
Natural
High. Trails,
beach, upland, salt
marsh, mud flats
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
6-24-1970
$8,577
Permanent CR Granted
to Commonwealth of
MA
8-30-2004
Doc. 978,472
8
4
0 SLOUGH ROAD
Copelas
(2 parcels)
3.845
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Pondshore
RR
Walking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Existing trail
network accessed
from Mothers Bog
parcel, hiking.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-12-2019
For Conservation,
Watershed Protection,
Passive Recreation
Permanent CR
Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
9 14
HAWK’ S NEST
0 SLOUGH ROAD REAR
(Maebelle Ellis)
(2 parcels)
28.612
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Existing trail
network accessed
from Mothers Bog
parcel, hiking
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for an
accessible trail at
this time.
1-26-1999
$65,967
STATE PATHWAYS
GRANT
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
9 16
MOTHERS BOG
CONSERVATION AREA
0 SLOUGH ROAD REAR
(Jay & Melissa Jorgenson)
8.857
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Hiking, Walking,
Biking, Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,,
Bow Hunting In
Season
Good
Natural
Trail network,
former bog, un-
paved parking area.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time. possibly
in future
6-20-2006
$600,000
CPA Funds &
STATE SELF HELP
GRANT
Permanent Wellfield
Preservation Restriction
Held By Brewster
Water Dept.
W/ Easement To
Brewster Conservation
Trust
Doc. 1066696
21114/243
LC 1066695
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
2
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
9 23
0 SLOUGH ROAD
Elbow Pond
(3 parcels)
2.480
acres
Pondshore
RR
Walking,
Birdwatching, Fishing,
Swimming, Canoeing
Good
Natural
None, busy road,
steep slope, no
trail, no parking.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-05-1955 SB
To Cons. Com
3-28-013
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
3-28-2013
9
51
MEETINGHOUSE ROAD
CONSERVATION AREA
(WINDRIFT ACRES)
OFF SLOUGH ROAD
(Copelas)
23.908
acres
Pine/oak Woodlands
RR
Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Bow Hunting In
Season
Good
Natural
Existing trail
network accessed
from Mothers Bog
parcel
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-12-2019
CPA funds &
STATE L.A.N.D
GRANT
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
12-16-2019
BK. 32547 PG. 128
9
52
MEETINGHOUSE ROAD
CONSERVATION AREA
OFF SLOUGH ROAD
(Borden-Burks)
27.020
acres
Pondshore
Pine/Oak
Woodlands
RR
Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Bow Hunting In
Season
Good
Natural
Existing trail
network accessed
from Mothers Bog
parcel
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
4-6-2018
$432,000 CPA Funds &
STATE L.A.N.D.
GRANT
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
4-6-2018
BK. 31240 PG. 197
BCT Says 5-2-2018
10 23
MOTHERS BOG
CONSERVATION
AREA
0 SLOUGH ROAD
(BBJ Cranberry Trust/
Russas & Dire)
(8 parcels)
51.200
acres
Cranberry Bog,
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Bow Hunting In
Season
Good
Natural
Trail network,
former bog, un-
paved parking area.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
6-20-2006
PHASE 1
$1,525,000
CPA Funds &
STATE SELF HELP
GRANT
&
6-15-2007
PHASE 2
$2,125,000
CPA Funds &
STATE SELF HELP
GRANT &
Dennis Water District
contributed $1,000,000
Water Preservation
Restriction held by
Dennis Water District
on 1 parcel, with rest
under
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
6-15-2007
Doc. 1,066,695
11 15
0 SLOUGH ROAD
Pine Pond
(Edward Donovan)
3.270
acres
Pondshore
Old Bog
RR
Walking,
Birdwatching,
Canoeing, Fishing,
Swimming
Good
Natural
Limited. No
access, mostly
wetlands
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
3-1-2007
7-26-2007 Select Board
to
Cons Com
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
7-26-2007
13 73 RED TOP ROAD
(9 parcels)
4.545
acres RL Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No parking, no
town maintained
trails.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
7-18-1980
For Conservation
Purposes
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
3
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
14 28
0 ROCKY HILL ROAD
REAR
(Heirs Of Joseph Ellis)
2.500
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RL Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No access,
landlocked. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
1-25-2010
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
12-17-2010
16 1
QUIVETT MARSH
0 MAIN STREET REAR
(Heirs Of Rufus Clark)
0.401
acres
Saltmarsh
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Mostly wetland, no
trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
11-19-2010 Select Board
To Cons Com
Art 23 May 2011 TM
For Conservation &
Recreation Purposes
5-19-2011
Permanent CR held by
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-19-2011
16 2
QUIVETT MARSH VISTA
CONSERVATION AREA
0 MAIN STREET
(Addison Pratt)
(2 parcels)
3.837
acres
Meadow, Maple
Swamp &
Parking Area
RM/RR
Hiking, Walking,
Birdwatching
Meadow and maple
swamp
Good
Natural
Established
parking area,
accessible viewing
platform with
benches, trails.
YES
Accessible viewing
platform off
parking area.
Trails not
accessible.
6-22-2009
$300,000
CPA Funds &
Funds from Dennis
Conservation Trust &
STATE L.A.N.D.
GRANT
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
6-22-2009
16 15
0 MAIN STREET REAR
(Barry Manuel & Murray
Freed)
(2 parcels)
2.100
acres
Saltmarsh
RM/VB Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No trails or access. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
9-6-2001 Select Board
To Cons Com
7-15-2013
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
7-15-2013
27541/43
16 33
0 MAIN STREET
(Abuts Candlestick Lane)
1.000
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No access or trails. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-1-1987
To Cons Com for
Conservation & Passive
Recreation ART 31 TM
5-4-2009
Permanent CR held by
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-20-2009
20 2
PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
(56 parcels)
377.090
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Includes access to
Slough, Walkers and
Upper Mill Ponds,
with a Landing at
Upper Mill Pond
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Biking, Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Swimming, Boating.
Fishing,
Boat access/ramp and
DNR storage building
(10x16)
Good
Natural
Informal access to
many established
trails for hiking
and nature study.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
Town acquisitions in
1986 and 1987
Town Conservation
Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
4
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
20 33
PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 BLACK DUCK
CARTWAY
Walkers Pond
(Krawitz)
6.395
acres
Pondshore,
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Swimming, Canoeing
Good
Natural No formal trails. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-22-2004
Land Bank Funds
$325,000
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-24-2008
LC Doc. 1,081,503
20 36
PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
(20 parcels)
119.397
acres
Pine/Oak
Woodlands
Shrub Swamp &
Maple Swamp
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Biking, Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Many trails
through uplands.
Informal parking.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
Town acquisitions in
1986 and 1987
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
9-26-2018
25 14
A P NEWCOMB ROAD
(Manuel Barry & Murray
Freed)
1.200
acres
Old Bog
RL
Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Undeveloped
woodlands, no
trails
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
9-6-2001
To Cons Com
7-15-2013
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
7-15-2013
7-8-2013 27541/43
26 11 0 MAIN STREET REAR
(Ahlstrom)
3.290
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Abuts Saltmarsh
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Good
Natural
Trails to the
bay
No public access YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-28-2001
$280,000
Land Bank Funds &
STATE SELF HELP
GRANT
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-23-2003
Doc. 920,219
26 12 0 MAIN STREET REAR
(Ahlstrom)
1.900
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RM Walking,
Birdwatching,
Good
Natural No public access YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
10-31-2002
STATE SELF HELP
GRANT
Charitable Trust for
Conservation in Deed
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
26 31
CEDAR RIDGE RESERVE
CONSERVATION AREA
0 MAIN STREET REAR
Abuts Drummer Boy Park
(Eldredge)
3.105
acres
Cedar Grove,
Coastal Bank
RM Walking,
Birdwatching,
Good
Natural
Informal trail
through parcel. YES
Potential future
access from
Drummer Boy
Park, but not at this
time.
12-31-2014
$500,000
CPA Funds &
STATE L.A.N.D.
GRANT
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
12-29-2014
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
5
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
26 39
John & Kristi Hay Trail
CONSERVATION AREA
0 PINE HILL DRIVE
(Stranahan)
9.837
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RM
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
John & Kristi Hay
Trail
Good
Natural
Two car parking
area at trail head,
well maintained
trails for hiking,
nature study
YES
This is not
considered
handicap
accessible, nor
would it be
suitable for
accessibility in the
future.
1-31-2008
$1,200,000
CPA Funds &
STATE L.A.N.D
GRANT
22640/262
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-31-2008
Bk. 22640/264
29 3 PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
8.300
acres RR
Walking, Hiking,
Biking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
No hiking trails in
this area of the
larger conservation
parcel.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-28-1988 Town Conservation
Area
31
6
PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
200 WEST GATE ROAD
MATOTT HOUSE
12.300
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Old Bog
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Limited as there is
a town-owned
residence on this
parcel
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
5-15-1987
Town Conservation
Land
Includes the Matott
House Used To House
Americorps/
Summer Staff
32 16
PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 RUN HILL RD
23.000
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Well established
trails and cartpaths,
two trail heads
with parking.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
7-31-1986
$951,700
STATE SELF HELP
GRANT
LC doc.40690
LCP 38761A
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
(107458)
32 17
PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 RUN HILL RD
2.700
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Wetland
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Small wetland
within another
conservation area,
no trails
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
7-31-1986
STATE SELF HELP
GRANT
Doc. 406901
LCP 38761A
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
34 65 0 LOWER MILL POND
Bird Sanctuary
2.000
acres
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Provides water
access between two
great ponds via
small non powered
watercraft
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
1-6-1976
Bk. 2284 Pg. 032
Bird Sanctuary Per
Public Trust
Town Conservation
Land
36 39 0 MAIN STREET
(2 parcels)
2.690
acres
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No formal access.
Protects shore and
buffer to a small
kettle pond
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
5-3-1978
2699-149
Town Conservation
Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
6
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
37 23 0 PAINES CREEK
3.100
acres
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Mostly wetlands,
no trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
11-6-1982
3605-195
Town Conservation
Land
37 45 0 LOWER ROAD
5.700
acres
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No trails, some
wetlands YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-4-1981
3409-18
Town Conservation
Land
37 60
BETTY’S CURVE
CONSERVATION AREA
1009 MAIN STREET
Old Trailer Park
(Nevin)
1.000
acres
Meadow
VB Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Once runoff is
contained a
detention basin-
rain garden and
benches may be
installed here and
on other parcel.
YES
Flat site, handicap
parking at adjacent
shopping center,
possible
wheelchair access
in future
4-8-2005
$617,300
Land Bank Funds
19705-79
22621/1
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-24-2008
Bought to provide area
curtail run-off that was
entering Stony Brook
Herring Run and
adjacent Brackish
Marsh
37 92
BETTY’S CURVE
CONSERVATION AREA
1008 MAIN STREET
Jolly Whaler Motel (Nevin)
1.220
acres
Meadow
VB Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Once runoff is
contained a
detention basin-
rain garden and
benches may be
installed here and
on other parcel
YES
Flat site, handicap
parking at adjacent
shopping center,
possible
wheelchair access
in future
4-8-2005
$327,700
Land Bank Funds
19705-079
22621/1
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-24-2008
Bk. 22621 Pg. 1
Bought to provide area
curtail run-off that was
entering Stony Brook
Herring Run and
Paine’s Creek
37
94
0 MAIN STREET
(From Nevin)
1.000
acres
Brackish Marsh
Called “Dark
Swamp”
RM Birdwatching Good
Natural Salt marsh YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
4-8-2005
19705-087
BCT CR
1-24-2008
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-24-2008
38 44 0 LANTERN LANE
4.500
acres
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No trails on this
parcel YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-19-19917800-73
Town Conservation
Land
41 14
PUNKHORN PARKLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 SQUANTUM PATH
2.900
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
No trails on this
parcel, abuts larger
conservation
parcels.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
3-11-1996
10094-237
5-20-2009
23717-259
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-20-2009
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
7
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
48 10 0 BRIER LANE 11.180
acres RM Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No parking area or
trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
3-1-1974
2008-302
Town Conservation
Land
54 20
0 HAZEL LANE
REAR
(Edward Dembrowski, Jr)
0.560
acres
Cranberry
Bog/Maple Swamp
RR/RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Landlocked, no
access, no trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
4-18-2008
22842-27
12-17-2008
23318-299
Conservation & Passive
Recreation
TM 11-17-2008
Article 9
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
12-16-2008
56 62 0 LONG POND ROAD 15.220
acres RM
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Potential future
park, no trails at
present
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
6-5-1979
2928-171
Town Conservation
Land
63 32
SHEEP POND
WOODLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 GULLS WAY
3.000
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Good
Natural
Landlocked, no
access, no trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-15-87
6063-294
1-21-98
11179-043
5-20-2009
23717/259
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-20-2009
23717/259
65 68
SHEEP POND
WOODLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 LONG POND ROAD
REAR/
0 GULLS WAY
(Glenn Rowley)
(3 parcels)
20.934
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Old Bog
Pondshore with
landing
Also abuts large State
parking lot for Cape
Cod Rail Trail
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching, Biking,
Horseback Riding,
Fishing, Swimming,
Canoeing
Good
Natural
Existing cart paths
provide hiking and
water access to
Sheep Pond
YES
Gulls Way – Flat
And Unpaved
Might Be
Wheelchair
Accessible;
trails/cartpaths not
accessible
1-18-2002
$1,255,800
14717/150
STATE SELF-HELP
GRANT
19857/153
FED LWCF
Phase 1
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
7-11-2002
Bk. 15352 Pg. 311
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
8
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
65 70
SHEEP POND
WOODLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 LONG POND ROAD
REAR
(Glenn Rowley)
(5 parcels)
24.424
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Old Bog
Pondshore with
landing
Also abuts large State
parking lot for Cape
Cod Rail Trail
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Biking, Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Fishing, Swimming,
Canoeing
Good
Natural
Access to larger
conservation area
with cartpaths
leading to Sheep
Pond, adjacent to
Cape Code Rail
Trail and its public
parking area
YES
Gulls Way – Flat
And Unpaved
Might Be
Wheelchair
Accessible; trails
and cartpaths are
not.
1-12-2004
$1,522,200
18117/098
STATE SELF-HELP
GRANT
19857/153
FED LWCF
Phase 2
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-24-2004
19421/26
67 75 0 STONEHENGE DRIVE
(abuts Town Hall driveway)
1.120
acres
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Mostly wetlands,
no trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
9-3-1982
3550-340
Town Conservation
Land
68 105
HARDEN-CHAPMAN
PRESERVE
0 MAIN STREET
3.570
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No trails, some
wetlands YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
NO DATE
1136-194
Town Conservation
Land
75 46
SHEEP POND
WOODLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
0 LONG POND ROAD
(Herbert Bruch)
(2 parcels)
33.173
acres
Beech, Pine/Oak
Woodlands
Pondshore
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Horseback Riding,
Birdwatching, Fishing
Good
Natural
Access to larger
conservation area
with cartpaths
leading to Sheep
Pond, adjacent to
Cape Code Rail
Trail and its public
parking area
YES
Gulls Way – Flat
And Unpaved
Might Be
Wheelchair
Accessible; trails
and cartpaths are
not.
12-17-1999
$600,000
12728-111
STATE SELF-HELP
GRANT
13133/179
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
12-30-2013
27910/334
84
22,
Portion
Of 53
LONG POND
WOODLANDS
CONSERVATION AREA
OFF ROUTE 137
(Robinson)
40.413
acres
Beech, Pine/Oak
Woodlands,
Pondfront view
RM /RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Good
Natural
Two parking
spaces, loop trail
for hiking, no
established path to
Long Pond
frontage due to
steep slope.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
5-7-2019
$1,760,000
(219327)
STATE L.A.N.D.
GRANT
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-7-2019
LC doc. 1,369,469
85 43 0 LONG POND ROAD
5.800
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
abuts
Orenda Conservation
Area
RM Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No established
paths through this
parcel.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-23-1993
8965-308
Town Conservation
Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
9
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
90 170
0 MAIN STREET
(4 parcels)
1.937
Acres
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No established
trails. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
9-10-1976
(68424)
Town Conservation
Land
93 41
0 LONG POND ROAD/
ROUTE 137
(Lisa Santarello)
3.690
acres
Beech, Pine/Oak
Woodlands
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No established
trails. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
7-15-2015
$140,000
29014-73
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
7-15-2015
94 83
0 MCGUERTY ROAD
Abuts Field/Kelley
(Helen Priebe)
1.370
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Part of an existing
trail network
through mostly
water department
lands.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
2-12-2008
22665-94
7-24-2008
23059-330
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
7-24-2008
94 94
WHITEGATE FARM
CONSERVATION AREA
0 LONG POND ROAD
(Alison Davis-Hilbert)
8.005
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RL
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Trail leads to Water
Dept. land
Good
Natural
Existing trails
accessed through
water department
lands.
YES
The trail is not
accessible and is
not considered
suitable for
accessibility in the
future.
1-17-2003
$350,000
Land Bank funds
16260-024
STATE SELF-HELP
GRANT
17098/261
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
10-8-2003
17768/1
94 102
0 LONG POND ROAD
REAR
(James & Judith
Crystaloski)
5.360
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RL/RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Good
Natural
Existing trails
accessed through
water department
lands.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
1-24-2008
$69,680
22621-240
CPA Funds
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
4-6-2-2010
Purchased for wellfield
protection
24468-241
97 21
0 MILLSTONE ROAD
3.210
acres
RM Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
No established
trails. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
4-16-1974
2026-320
Town Conservation
Land
102 17
SPRUCE HILL
CONSERVATION
AREA
0 MAIN STREET
(Castiglione)
(3 parcels)
24.531
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
Beach
RM
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding,
Boardwalk Leads to
stairs and salt water
beach
Beach-Swimming
Good
Natural
Van accessible
parking would
have to be
installed in front
of the fence
YES
Cartpath to beach
too steep to meet
accessible
standards.
2-4-1986
(105228)
FED LWCF GRANT
LC Doc. 405150
STATE SELF- HELP
GRANT
Doc. 391033
Town Conservation
Land
Has Building by Main
Street currently vacant.
.
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
10
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
105 13
ABUTS CAPTAINS
GOLF COURSE
0 MID CAPE HIGHWAY
0.200
acres
Pine/Oak
Woodlands,
Pondshore
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural none YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
5-14-2003
16912-243
Permanent CR Held By
BCT
1-3-2011
106
5
0 LONG POND ROAD
REAR
5.800
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Horseback Riding,
Hunting
Good
Natural
Existing trail
network through
mostly water
department lands.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
9-13-86,
5243-68
10-21-91
7719-273
10-30-2013
27791-228
Watershed Protection,
Public Water Supply
Development, Passive
Recreation Per Special
TM Art 15-29-2012
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
107 41
0 FREEMANS WAY
(Naumkeag- Peter Copelas)
(2 parcels)
28.505
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Horseback Riding,
Hunting
Good
Natural
Existing trail
network through
mostly water
department lands.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
3-13-2014
$660,000
28029-275
CPA funds
State Grant
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
3-13-2014
115 51 0 CAPE COD BAY
6.400
acres
10-3-90
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Salt marsh
(Namskaket Marsh
ACEC)
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
10-3-1990
7312-268
Town Conservation
Land
116 1 0 Mitchell Lane
2.380
acres
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Salt marsh
(Namskaket Marsh
ACEC)
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
3-1-1974
2008-305
Town Conservation
Land
119
1-8644
ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF
COURSE
0 FREEMANS WAY
10.798
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No existing trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
5-10-1996
10179-001
Town Conservation
Land
119
1-B
ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF
COURSE
0 WHITE ROCK ROAD
(William Marsh, Trustee)
2.340
acres
Pine/Oak
Woodlands,
Pondshore
No frontage
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No existing trails. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-31-1997
$1,144,979
11147-037
5-26-1998
(713350)
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-3-2011
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
11
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
119
1-E
ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF
COURSE
0 MID CAPE HIGHWAY
(William Marsh)
0.735
acres
Pine/Oak
Woodlands,
Pondshore
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No existing trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-31-1997
$1,144,979
11147-037
5-26-1998
(713350)
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
1-3-2011
119
1-D
ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF
COURSE
(William Marsh)
19.900
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No existing trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-31-1997
$1,144,979
11147-037
5-26-1998
(713350)
Town Conservation
Land
119
1-C
ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF
COURSE
0 UNCLE SETH’S
CARTWAY
23.420
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural No existing trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-31-1997
$1,144,979
11147-037
5-26-1998
(713350)
Town Conservation
Land
127 37 0 CAPE COD BAY
(3 parcels)
168.050
acres
Saltmarsh
RM/RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Salt marsh
(Namskaket Marsh
ACEC)
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-19-1976
1387-437
7-15-2013
27541-43
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
7-8-2013
27541/43
132 34
MID CAPE HIGHWAY
0 UNKNOWN
(3 parcels)
7.500
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
I Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No trails. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
10-3-1990
7312-268
Town Conservation
Land
133 13 0 STATE PARK
1.300
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR Walking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural
Adjacent to
Nickerson State
Park and Dream
Day camp
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
9-10-1970
1484-90
Town Conservation
Land
135 4
BAKERS POND
CONSERVATION AREA
HIGGINS POND ROAD
0 NSP REAR
(3 parcels)
9.220
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Part of the Bakers
Pond conservation
area. No trails on
this piece.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-1-1987
6043-112
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
11-7-2011
136 8
BAKERS POND
CONSERVATION
AREA
0 BAKERS POND ROAD
(4 parcels)
49.660
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Established trail
system. Informal
parking, larger lot
in Orleans portion
of Bakers Pond
Conservation Area.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
11-9-79
3012-44
7-15-13
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-20-2013
27387/108
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
12
LANDS OWNED AND MANAGED BY THE BREWSTER CONSERVATION COMMISSION
MAP LOT PROPERTY NAME/
STREET NAME
ACRES/SF
VEGETATION ZONE CURRENT USE
CONDITION
(GOOD,
FAIR,
POOR)
RECREATION
POTENTIAL
PUBLIC
ACCESS /
NO FEE
ADA
ACCESS
ACQUISITION DATE/
PUBLIC OR OTHER
GRANT
LEVEL OF
PROTECTION
137 51
BAKERS POND
CONSERVATION AREA
BAKERS POND
CONSERVATION AREA
(7 parcels)
30.970
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
No established
trails north of Olde
Owl Pond Road.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
ATM 5-9-88 ART 55
Conservation, passive
recreation and watershed
protection pursuant to
chapter 40 sec. 86
11-15-1988
6519-069
Town Conservation
Land
144 44 0 ROUTE 39 REAR
11.332
acres
Pine/Oak
Woodlands,
Pondshore
RR/I
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Access through
power lines,
adjacent to other
conservation areas.
Yes
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
9-30-1992
8227-242
11-3-2003
17879-109
5-19-2011 To Cons Com
25456-86
To Preserve In Natural
State And for Passive
Recreation
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-19-2011
144 65
READ KINGSBURY
CONSERVATION AREA
WOOD DUCK ROAD
0 RUDDY DUCK ROAD
(Jackson)
3.040
acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Good
Natural
Trail network,
limited parking. YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
2-14-2012
CPA funds &
Funds from Town of
Orleans
Permanent CR granted
to Town of Orleans
Water Protection
District
3-8-2012
26204/331
145 33
ORLEANS TOWN LINE
2.000
acres RR Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching
Good
Natural No access, no trails YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
Tax Title to Cons Com.
11-13-2002
15905-015
Permanent CR Held By
BCT
12-17-2010
145 27
READ KINGSBURY
CONSERVATION
AREA
0 WOOD DUCK ROAD
(Mathews)
(2 parcels)
22.562 acres
Pine/Oak Woodlands
RR
Walking, Hiking,
Birdwatching,
Good
Natural
Trail network,
limited parking YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
12-17-2010
$750,000
CPA funds
25098-236
STATE L.A.N.D.
GRANT &
Funds from Town of
Orleans
With Land Court
Easement
12-29-1998
Town of Orleans
Water Protection
Restriction
221474
146 9 ABUTS NSP
0 MID CAPE HIGHWAY
9.070
acres
Pine/Oak
Woodlands, Shrub
Swamp
RR Walking, Hiking,
Horseback Riding
Good
Natural
Adjacent to
Nickerson State
Park, near
highway. No
trails.
YES
This site is not
considered
suitable for
handicap access at
this time.
11-9-1979
3012-44
5-20-2009
23717-259
Permanent CR Held By
Brewster Conservation
Trust
5-20-2009
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
LAND PARCELS OWNED & MANAGED BY BCT: 2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT 1 11/20/1983 Daniel & Joan PAINE 0.68 0 0.68 pine/oak wood 58 53
BCT 2 11/27/1983 Marjorie S. BURLING 0.22 0 0.22 pine slope 5 95
BCT 3 11/27/1983 J. Andrew SQUIRES 0.22 0 0.22 pine slope 5 96
BCT 4 1/2/1984 Gerald & Catherine McCARTHY 0.36 0 0.36 fill; phragmites 5 75
BCT 5 6/21/1984 Willard & Eliz. TIBBETTS 0.45 0 0.45 shrub thicket 79 67
BCT 6 7/1/1984 Estate of Allan S. BRAGG 0.14 0 0.14 pondshore 53 28
BCT 7 8/9/1984 Mary Louise & Ruth EDDY 12.01 6.49 18.50 meadow,garden 57 59
BCT 8A 9/6/1984 Mildred W. SHAW 0.23 0 0.23 pine/oak wood 78 63
BCT 8B 9/6/1984 Mildred W. SHAW 0.30 0 0.30 pine/oak wood 78 70
BCT 9 10/17/1984 MITCHELL/WATERS 15.03 6.01 21.04 pine/oak wood 114 53
BCT10A 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.77 0 0.77 dry kettles; pine/oak woods 51 77
BCT10B 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.61 0 0.61 dry kettles; pine/oak woods 51 76
BCT10C 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.71 0 0.71 dry kettles; pine/oak woods 51 75
BCT10D 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.67 0 0.67 dry kettles; pine/oak woods 51 74
BCT10E 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.79 0 0.79 dry kettles; pine/oak woods 51 73
BCT11 10/24/1984 Robert & Marie McDONNELL 0.36 0 0.36 pine/locusts 49 134
BCT12 12/8/1985 Frances M. NICKERSON 4.13 0 4.13 pine/oak wood 90 152
BCT13 12/30/1986 Edward B. DOHERTY 0.23 0 0.23 pine/oak wood 85 86
BCT14 1/19/1987 Catherine M. HART 4.41 0 4.41 pine/oak wood 97 28
BCT15 9/16/1987 Daniel & Joan PAINE 0.41 0 0.41 pine/oak wood 58 52
BCT16 12/23/1987 Betsy G. CLARK 0.08 0 0.08 meadow 26 26
BCT17 4/7/1988 Michael A. ARPANO 1.08 0 1.08 meadow 26 26
BCT18 7/31/1988 Dorrold V. MacGREGOR 0 2.49 2.49 salt marsh 115 52
BCT19 8/29/1988 Helen C. MacGREGOR et al.1.87 0.89 2.76 pondshore; field 36 47
BCT20 12/26/1988 Mary Louise & Ruth EDDY 0.12 0.81 0.93 wooded swamp 57 58
BCT21 4/23/1989 Margaret GIBBS Trust -- ----wooded swamp 57 58
BCT22 8/10/1989 Robert & Joan FLAHERTY 0.57 0.49 1.06 old bog 48 21
BCT23 9/5/1989 Elizabeth B. WOLLACOTT 1.25 0.27 1.52 shrub swamp 48 22
BCT24 9/4/1990 Carl & Mary AHLSTROM 0 10.48 10.48 salt marsh 16 18
BCT25A 9/24/1990 Warren & Jacquelyn PRICE 0.35 0.8 1.15 old bog; woods 68 2
BCT25B 9/24/1990 Warren & Jacquelyn PRICE 1.53 0 1.53 woods 68 1
BCT26 11/20/1990 Robert & Beverly RICCI 0 0.47 0.47 shrub swamp 37 49
BCT27A 12/12/1991 Hope T. DAVIS 0.44 0.11 0.55 pine/oak woods 57 55
1
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT27B 12/12/1991 Hope T. DAVIS 0.71 0 0.71 pine/oak woods 57 49
BCT28A 12/26/1991 CAPE COD FIVE CENTS BANK 0.65 0 0.65 shrub swamp 48 25
BCT28B 12/26/1991 CAPE COD FIVE CENTS BANK 0.64 0 0.64 shrub swamp 48 26
BCT28C 12/26/1991 CAPE COD FIVE CENTS BANK 0.67 0 0.67 shrub swamp 48 24
BCT30 3/17/1992 CC MUS. OF NATURAL HISTORY 0 0.61 0.61 shrub swamp 69 108
BCT33 4/26/1992 V.M. WELLOCK & G.W. GIBSON 0.08 0 0.08 dune 49 81
BCT34 4/28/1992 Ruth A. PRIEST 0.26 0.29 0.55 brackish marsh 58 67
BCT35 7/30/1992 Estate of Amy E. HOOPER 1.40 0 1.40 pine/oak woods 99 75
BCT36 10/22/1992 Natalie ROBINSON 0.81 0 0.81 alianthus grove 38 7
BCT37 8/22/1993 Katherine NOVOTNY 0.29 0 0.29 pine/oak woods 93 50
BCT38 10/4/1993 Frances M. NICKERSON 1.01 7.71 8.72 dune,flats,beach 91 43
BCT39 10/6/1993 Robert N. QUADE 2.35 0 2.35 pondshore;woods 19 20
BCT41 4/28/1994 Jane C. WAGONER 0.55 0 0.55 pondshore;woods 89 57
BCT42 4/28/1994 Barbara H. ALBRET 0.51 0 0.51 pondshore;woods 89 59
BCT43 10/24/1994 Arthur F.& Geraldine P. DUGAN 0.19 9.16 9.35 old bog 49 137
BCT44 6/15/1995 William H. BIRCHARD 0.56 0.18 0.74 blueberry swamp 89 51
BCT45A 6/15/1995 BIRCHARD & C.Vincent TREAT 3.99 2.01 6.00 pine/oak woods 89 50
BCT45B 6/15/1995 BIRCHARD & C.Vincent TREAT 0 3.31 3.31 old bog; stream 90 185
BCT47 11/8/1995 Peter HERRMANN/Karen MALKUS 1.84 0 1.84 pond; beech woods 82 65
BCT48 11/23/1995 Everett Howard SEARS 0.22 0.51 0.73 maple swamp 11 24
BCT49 4/1/1996 Heirs of G. PARTHENIA ELLIS 8.65 0.25 8.90 pine/oak woods 37 4
BCT50 4/25/1996 Frank B. VARGA 0.55 0 0.55 pine/oak woods 89 45
BCT51 4/25/1996 Frank B. VARGA 0.69 0 0.69 pondshore; woods 89 63
BCT53 11/4/1996 Ralph R. CROWELL 11.01 0.69 11.70 pondshore; woods 132 4
BCT54 11/4/1996 Ruth A. PRIEST 1.44 0 1.44 ex-house, yard 58 66
BCT55 12/1/1997 Lorraine K. BARRINGER 0.63 0 0.63 37 55
BCT56 12/29/1998 Roy W. ROBINSON, Jr.4.78 1.01 5.79 pine/oak woods 57 2
BCT57 8/9/1999 G. WORKMAN & M. SELOVER 0.84 0.25 1.09 inland bank; swamp 78 52
BCT59 12/22/1999 John D. & Linda P. HOOD 0.00 1.02 1.02 old bog 48 66
BCT60 2/19/2015 (HAY) via Packet Landing LLC (BIRDSEY)52.82 0.23 53.05 pine/oak woods; vernal pool 14 11
BCT61A 3/26/2000 Robert E. & James A. HARVEY 3.80 0 3.80 pine/oak woods 5 68
BCT61B 3/26/2000 Robert E. & James A. HARVEY 3.76 0 3.76 pine/oak woods 5 70
BCT61C 3/26/2000 Robert E. & James A. HARVEY 9.30 0 9.30 pine/oak woods 5 69
BCT62 6/27/2000 Ruth & Mary-Louise EDDY 31.89 0 31.89 pine/oak woods 49 135
BCT63 3/26/2001 BARBOUR Nominee Trust 19.92 0.00 19.92 pine/oak woods 85 152
2
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT64 10/3/2001 Gordon H. & Christine F. BROOKS 5.49 1.09 6.58 old bog 126 13
BCT66 4/11/02 Lois Q. RACZ 2 2.23 4.23 pine/oak, red maple 48 82
BCT68 6/26/02 William & Agnes DOWLING 8.3 0 8.3 pine/oak woods 49 105
BCT73A 12/13/02 Estate of Fred H. GRAY, Jr.0.02 0.55 0.57 shrub swamp 36 40
BCT73B 12/13/02 Estate of Fred H. GRAY, Jr.0.14 0.97 1.11 shrub swamp 36 41
BCT75 6/9/2003 Kenneth G.T. & Perrie DRYSDALE 1.51 0.00 1.51 pine/oak woods 115 47
BCT76 6/11/2003 John A. WILSON & Helen MacDONALD 2.90 0.00 2.90 pine/oak woods 108 25
BCT82 12/23/2004 Lawrence MINEAR 0.52 0.10 0.62 pondshore; pine/oak woods 56 84
BCT85A 8/31/2005 Sarah L. DONAHUE 1.73 0.00 1.73 pine/oak woods 42 12
BCT85B 8/31/2005 Sarah L. DONAHUE 0.67 0.66 1.33 pondshore;maple swamp 42 17
BCT86A 11/14/2005 Frank DOBLE et al 1.40 0.00 1.40 meadow;pine woods 23 12
BCT86B 11/14/2005 Frank DOBLE et al 1.40 0.00 1.40 meadow;pine woods 23 13
BCT86C 11/14/2005 Frank DOBLE et al 1.63 0.00 1.63 meadow;pine woods 23 16
BCT87 1/5/2006 Heirs of John O. NILES (via Compact)3.39 0.84 4.23 pondshore; pine/oak woods 10 38
BCT88 2/17/2006 Est. of Roland & Marilyn TABER 0.10 0.66 0.76 old bog 75 3
BCT89 6/22/2006 Diane L. BOUCHARD 1.00 1.30 2.30 pondshore; maple swamp 11 44
BCT90 6/29/2006 Henry W. & Lucy B. PATTERSON 2.73 0.00 2.73 pine/oak woods 96 163
BCT91 11/28/2006 SEA PINES TRUST (Scheft et al)1.83 0.45 2.28 pine/oak woods; shrub swamp 77 11
BCT93 12/22/2006 John G. & Betty H. LATHAM 2.35 0 2.35 pine/oak woods 147 5
BCT94A 12/29/2006 Dennis W. DUGAN 1.04 1.76 2.80 maple swamp; ditch 49 154
BCT94B 12/29/2006 Dennis W. DUGAN 1.50 1.50 3.00 maple swamp; ditch 49 156
BCT95 1/12/2007 Peter SPARROW (via Compact)4.10 0.00 4.10 pondshore;pine/oak woods 133 19
BCT97 4/16/2007 Bertha M. WOODFIN 1.00 0.00 1.00 pondshore;pine/oak woods 133 18
BCT98 4/27/2007 Marston and Jean DALEY 0.00 0.35 0.35 maple swamp; oak woods 101 55
BCT99 6/27/2007 The B.D. Realty (DANIELS) Trust 0.9 1.52 2.42 maple swamp; old bog 48 65
BCT100 6/29/2007 Frances MANION 0.59 0.10 0.69 oak/maple woods, ditch 37 54
BCT110A 2/12/2008 Daryl Massey BLADEN, Trustee 0.00 7.60 7.60 brackish marsh 6 41
BCT110B 2/12/2008 Daryl Massey BLADEN, Trustee 0.50 0.00 0.50 house lot, yard; house removed 6 38
BCT111 4/18/2008 Frank R. PLONA 2.37 0.00 2.37 pine/oak woods 45 21
BCT112 6/16/2008 A. Nelson LONG, Jr.0.17 0.00 0.17 pine/oak woods 86 35
BCT113A 6/25/2008 Ruth JESTER 1.54 0.00 1.54 pine/oak woods 146 11
BCT113B 6/25/2008 Ruth JESTER 1.70 0.00 1.70 pine/oak woods 146 12
BCT114 10/9/2008 Lenore M. DEDON, Trustee 0.28 2.24 2.52 old bog; maple swamp;dike 57 63
BCT115 10/20/2008 Bernard J. COOPER 0.00 0.40 0.40 stream; fresh marsh 36 16
BCT116 2/9/2009 James and Ellen EHRHART 0.19 0.00 0.19 pine/oak woods 127 1
3
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT117 3/17/2009 Samuel & Mary BIONDI 0.12 0.00 0.12 oak/beech woods 94 70
BCT118 3/25/2009 Peter T. DAMON (via Compact)1.18 1.15 2.33 pondshore; maple swamp 23 45
BCT120A 9/29/2009 Harry & Olivia BASSETT 0.28 0.36 0.64 old bog; maple woods 11 21
BCT120B 9/29/2009 Harry & Olivia BASSETT 0.47 0.17 0.64 old bog; maple woods 11 20
BCT123 3/1/2010 Robert L. NORUM 1.37 0.00 1.37 pine/oak woods 41 7
BCT125 4/15/2010 John J. MAHONEY 0.00 0.20 0.20 old bog 146 23
BCT126 5/7/2010 John A. SPARGO 0.00 3.96 3.96 salt marsh 115 11
BCT127 6/1/2010 Sheldon & Tonia HAMILTON 7.62 0.27 7.89 vernal pool;pine/oak wood 145 28
BCT129 7/12/2010 Caroline TRICKEY & Sarah A. WALKER 0.43 0.00 0.43 pondshore; pondbank 35 56
BCT130 12/28/2010 William R. HAMMATT 0.40 0.00 0.40 pine/oak woods 133 2
BCT131A 12/29/2010 JAMAR Realty Trust (TELLIER)(via Compact)9.65 0.00 9.65 pine/oak woods 136 2
BCT131B 12/29/2010 JAMAR Realty Trust (TELLIER)(via Compact)3.00 0.00 3.00 pine/oak woods 144 47
BCT133 3/31/2011 June WHITWORTH 1.73 0.22 1.95 pondshore; maple swamp 47 85
BCT134 5/20/2011 James HARRINGTON 2.50 0.50 3.00 vernal pools;pine/oak wood 144 46
BCT135 5/27/2011 Cletus J. WARREN 2.60 0.00 2.60 pine/oak woods 13 95
BCT137 12/19/2011 Jackson H. CROCKER (via Compact)1.00 1.60 2.60 pondshore; old bog 36 37
BCT138 12/22/2011 John & Joann FIGUERAS (via Compact)2.00 0.00 2.00 pine/oak woods 136 18
BCT139 1/17/2012 Wendell B. HUNTON 1.89 0.00 1.89 pondshore 13 6
BCT142 6/27/2012 John & Carol ERICSSON 2.30 0.00 2.30 meadow; cedar woods 55 146
BCT143A 8/24/2012 WEEKES & FULLER 3.10 0.00 3.10 beech forest;pondshore 82 48
BCT143B 8/24/2012 WEEKES & FULLER 3.30 0.00 3.30 beech forest 82 47
BCT144 12/3/2012 Heirs of James F. RYDER (via Compact)1.20 0.00 1.20 pine/oak woods 147 6
BCT145 12/21/2012 Anthony F. GERARDI (via Compact)1.87 6.07 7.94 old bog; pond 16 23
BCT146 4/29/2013 BASSETT Family Trust (via Compact)2.1 0.10 2.20 pine/oak woods 42 11
BCT147 5/3/2013 ERM Family Ltd Part. (McIVER) (via Compact)1.24 0.00 1.24 meadow 26 25
BCT148 6/25/2013 William A., Jr. & Elizabeth CARTER (via Compact)1.28 0.00 1.28 pine/oak woods 12 4
BCT149 7/12/2013 Elizabeth G. TAYLOR, Trustee 2.83 0.56 3.39 beech woods;powerline; shrub swamp 45 45
BCT150 8/15/2013 Ruth DARLING-GOLDBERG, Trustee 9.00 0.00 9.00 pine/oak woods 136 1
BCT153A 1/29/2014 Helen C. BALDWIN (via Compact)3.30 0.26 3.56 powerline; cerrtified vernal pool 3 17
BCT153B 1/29/2014 Helen C. BALDWIN (via Compact)1.54 0.00 1.54 mowed field; tupelo grove 12 97
BCT154A 3/14/2014 Diane L. BOUCHARD Trust (via Saulnier)11.90 0.05 11.95 pine/oak woods; old bog 25 78
BCT154B 3/14/2014 Diane L. BOUCHARD Trust (via Saulnier)16.50 0.00 16.50 pine/oak woods 25 31
BCT155 6/27/2014 (HAY) via Packet Landing LLC (BIRDSEY)1.35 0.00 1.35 pine/oak woods 15 67
BCT157 11/7/2014 Robert E. LIBBY 1.36 0.15 1.51 oak/cherry woods; salt marsh 16 5
BCT154C 12/10/2014 Diane L. BOUCHARD Trust (via Sprogell)0.00 0.40 0.40 old bog 25 30
4
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT158 5/19/1900 LAKE Family Trust (Martha and Marcia)0.34 0.00 0.34 pine/oak woods; borrow pit 11 31
BCT161 4/1/2015 (HAY) via Packet Landing LLC (via Compact)1.63 0.00 1.63 pine/oak woods; driveway 15 71
BCT162 5/5/2015 Carl S. RIEDELL 0.72 0.00 0.72 pine/oak woods 20 3
BCT165 11/30/2015 Jack & Linda DARBYSHIRE (via Compact)3.19 0.00 3.19 pine/oak woods 20 38
BCT166 12/22/2015 Estate of Albiel ELLIS (via Compact)0.95 0.00 0.95 invasives meadow;orchard 37 5
BCT167 12/30/2015 Jay & Wendy MERCHANT 13.17 0.00 13.17 pine/oak woods; powerline 24 90
BCT168 12/31/2015 Carole A. BUEHLER, Trustee (via Compact)2.23 0.00 2.23 pondshore; pine/oak woods 93 53
BCT169 12/31/2015 Timothy BIRDSALL & Jillian DOUGLASS (via Orenda) 2.32 0.00 2.32 pondshore; pine/beech woods 93 54
BCT170 2/10/2016 Keith L. MILLER & Victoria L. HOLMES 2.00 0.48 2.48 pondshore; powerline 75 16
BCT171 2/17/2016 Karl METZ and Diane METZ, Trustees 2.50 0.00 2.50 pine/oak woods; steep slope 146 24
BCT172A 2/25/2016 Steven BACKUS, Trustee 1.55 0.45 2.00 pondshore; beech grove 78 139
BCT172B 2/25/2016 Vernal Pool Realty Trust (BACKUS) (via Compact)1.45 0.85 2.30 vernal pool; beech grove 78 140
BCT173A 3/1/2016 Terry and Sandra LADD, Trustees 1.39 0.00 1.39 pine/oak woods 36 54
BCT173B 3/1/2016 Terry and Sandra LADD, Trustees 1.44 0.00 1.44 pine/oak woods; PJ's blackberry thicket 36 53
BCT174 7/25/2016 UNIQUE PROPERTIES, LLC (Cofield)0.08 0.00 0.08 pondshore 61 36
BCT175 11/10/2016 Estate of Philip SHAKIR 5.00 0.00 5.00 beech woods 83 11
BCT176A 12/23/2016 Bruce and Jeanne W. BOEHM 5.54 0.00 5.54 pine/oak woods 63 40
BCT176B 1/13/2017 Bruce and Jeanne W. BOEHM 5.57 0.00 5.57 pine/oak woods 63 41
BCT177A 12/28/2016 J. Bruce MacGREGOR & G. Howard HAYES 3.30 0.00 3.30 pine/oak woods 94 100
BCT177B 12/28/2016 J. Bruce MacGREGOR & G. Howard HAYES 6.00 0.00 6.00 pine/oak woods 94 69
BCT178 2/14/2017 Robert C. & Elaine F. WILLIAMS, Trustees 1.27 0.00 1.27 pine/oak woods 14 37
BCT179 6/21/2017 Barbara & Brent BOWERS, Trustees (via COMPACT)1.00 0.21 1.21 pondshore;pine/oak woods 5 2
BCT180 4/27/2017 Lee ZIEGLER-PROUTY 0.59 0.00 0.59 pine/oak woods 144 55
BCT181 11/13/2017 Edward A. PORTER 1.15 0.00 1.15 pine/oak woods 3 23
BCT182 12/21/2017 Henry N. FOSTER 3.15 0.86 4.01 pondshore; shrub swamp; oak woods 47 1
BCT183A 1/5/2018 Margaret HOLLAND 0.48 0.49 0.97 maple swamp; lot 11 19
BCT183B 1/5/2018 Margaret HOLLAND 0.00 0.20 0.20 pondshore;maple swamp 11 35
BCT184 2/12/2018 Edward A. PORTER 1.03 0.00 1.03 pine/oak woods 3 21
BCT185 2/28/2018 Steven BACKUS, Trustee (via Compact)1.15 0.70 1.85 pondshore;maple swamp 78 142
BCT186 3/22/2018 Helen C. BALDWIN (via Compact)2.04 0.00 2.04 mowed field; pine/oak 12 98
BCT188A 9/14/2018 Maureen PATERNO 0.90 1.60 2.50 shrub swamp; vernal pool 55 34
BCT188B 9/14/2018 Maureen PATERNO 0.50 1.00 1.50 shrub swamp; vernal pool 55 33
BCT189 12/10/2018 Daniel & Virginia BRADY 0.22 0.00 0.22 lot; demolition 12 59
BCT190 1/11/2019 Mary G. GAQUIN, Trustee 1.80 0.00 1.80 pine/oak woods 29 7
BCT191 1/29/2019 Thomas GARVEY, Trustee (via Compact)4.22 0.49 4.71 pine/oak woods; maple swamp 48 39
5
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT193A 6/25/2019 Theodore D. MACK 0.67 0.00 0.67 oak-maple woods 55 7
BCT193B 6/25/2019 Theodore D. MACK 0.56 0.00 0.56 oak-maple woods 55 8
BCT195 6/27/2019 Estate of James MAPLES 1.14 0.00 1.14 lot; demolition 15 39
BCT196 11/19/2019 Ronald J. COBB 0.70 2.10 2.80 shrub swamp; ditch 36 6
BCT198 12/31/2019 Nancy BERBRICK, Trustee (via Compact)4.08 0.00 4.08 pine/oak woods 13 112
BCT199 12/31/2019 Joseph & Susan BIERNAT (via Compact)1.38 0.00 1.38 pine/oak woods 13 109
BCT 200 1/29/2020 Nancy Graham, Trustee (via Compact)1.02 0.10 1.12 oak/maple woods, ditch 35 18
BCT201A 2/20/2020 John E. POSEY 0.10 2.00 2.10 old bog; maple swamp; ditch 47 62
BCT201B 2/20/2020 John E. POSEY 0.06 0.00 0.06 ditch 47 TBD
BCT202 3/4/2020 Betsy D. WARD Family Trust 8.23 0.00 8.23 pine/oak woods 13 TBD
BCT-owned Lands, Fee Simple, Sub-Total ACREAGE:470.03 108.41 578.45 NEW NEW
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT MAP LOT
pending: Baker, Slough Road, Foster, Brown
BCT CONSERVATION RESTRICTIONS: 2020
BCT CRs on Private Properties:
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT29 12/29/1991 Karen E. BIRDSEY 1.67 0.44 2.11 cedar grove 47 2
BCT40 12/27/1993 Sandra K. PAWA 6.07 0 6.07 pondshores;woods 93 10
BCT46 10/4/1995 Rosamond R. GAGE 0 2.6 2.60 pondshore; swamp 34 45
BCT52 6/19/1996 Louise McCLENNEN 1.01 4.86 5.87 cranberry bog 150 1 & 2
BCT58 9/19/1999 William & Tricia STALLINGS 31.71 0.29 32.00 pine/oak woods 16 13
BCT60 10/5/1999 John & Kristi P. HAY 52.82 0.23 53.05 pine/oak woods 14 11
BCT65 10/10/2001 Richard and Alice H. TONIS 3.13 2.20 5.33 pondfront;maple swamp 6 10
BCT70A 11/26/02 Jeffrey BRODRICK 2.68 0 2.68 pine/oak woods 26 10
BCT70B 11/26/02 Jeffrey BRODRICK 0 0.33 0.33 old bog 26 9
6
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT72 12/2/2002 Carl F. AHLSTROM IV & Eliz. C. PERRY 8.79 0.00 8.79 pine/oak woods 26 16
BCT77A 9/19/2003 Fisher Realty Trust (Doris FISHER, Tr,)1.29 0.00 1.29 dune 69 17
BCT77B 9/19/2003 Fisher Realty Trust (Doris FISHER, Tr,)1.29 0.00 1.29 dune 69 18
BCT78A 9/26/2003 BREWSTER PARK CLUB, INC.2.94 0.00 2.94 ballfield; play court; woods 50 74
BCT78B 9/26/2003 BREWSTER PARK CLUB, INC.2.94 0.00 2.94 ballfield; play court; woods 49 111
BCT80 12/23/2003 Joe and Anne WELCH, Trustees 1.34 0.00 1.34 pine/oak woods 41 9
BCT81A 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 7.00 0.00 7.00 beech forest 36 5
BCT81B 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 4.15 0.35 4.50 pondshore; beech forest 26 37
BCT81C 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 0.81 1.89 2.70 brackish marsh 26 36
BCT81D 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 0.45 0.00 0.45 pine woods 26 32
BCT81E 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 0.36 0.00 0.36 parking area 27 5
BCT81F 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 3.88 0.00 3.88 maple woods 36 10
BCT81G 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 22.01 28.90 50.91 beech woods;marsh;stream 37 93
BCT81H 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 1.70 0.00 1.70 maple/oak woods 36 13
BCT83 12/30/2004 Daryl Massey BLADEN, Trustee 0.00 7.00 7.00 brackish marsh 6 11
BCT92 12/12/2006 William & Tricia STALLINGS (Watson) 3.9 0 3.9 pine/oak woods 25 33
BCT96 1/30/2007 Alan McCLENNEN 0.42 0.00 0.42 pine/oak woods 142 64
BCT101 10/3/2007 Linda Leverette LOCKARD 7.46 0.00 7.46 pine/oak woods 55 58
BCT102 12/11/2007 Richard E. GALLIGAN, Trustee 6.94 0.00 6.94 pine/oak woods 14 27
BCT103 12/11/2007 Lisa LaBRECQUE, Bates Realty Trust 0.68 0.00 0.68 meadow;stream 68 37
BCT104A 12/12/2007 Diane L. BOUCHARD see assignment to Compact in 2015 pine/oak woods; beech 25 31
BCT104B 12/12/2007 Diane L. BOUCHARD see assignment to Compact in 2015 pine/oak woods; beech 25 29
BCT104C 12/12/2007 Diane L. BOUCHARD see assignment to Compact in 2015 old bog; shrub swamp 25 30
BCT105 12/21/2007 Carmen S. SCHERZO 0.18 0.00 0.18 dune; revetment 91 1
BCT106A 12/31/2007 Brent & Barbara BOWERS 0.59 0.28 0.87 pondshore 5 10
BCT106B 12/31/2007 Buggy Whip Nom. Trust (Brent BOWERS)2.21 0.00 2.21 pine/oak woods 14 4
BCT106C 12/31/2007 Buggy Whip Nom. Trust (Brent BOWERS)0.60 0.00 0.60 pine/oak woods 14 3
BCT121A 10/8/2009 Elizabeth G. TAYLOR, Trustee 1.03 0.00 1.03 beech woods;shrub swamp 45 6
BCT121B 10/8/2009 Elizabeth G. TAYLOR 1.97 0.00 1.97 beech woods 45 7
BCT122 12/29/2009 Donald C. ARTHUR 1.45 0.68 2.13 pondshore;maple swamp 48 81
BCT132 12/29/2010 Jack V. & and Nancy A. DRAKE 2.69 3.25 5.94 maple swamp; old bog 48 45
BCT136 12/14/2011 Pamela M. & Arthur F. PRAETSCH, Jr.1.56 0.00 1.56 tupelo grove 48 54
BCT151A 12/9/2013 P. Ranganath & Sandra T. NAYAK 0.39 0.00 0.39 pondshore 93 1
BCT151B 12/9/2013 P. Ranganath & Sandra T. NAYAK 6.18 0.00 6.18 pondshores; old bog 93 3
BCT CRs on PRIVATE Lands, Sub-Total ACREAGE:196.29 53.30 249.59
7
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
30 separate CRs Upland Wetland TOTAL
Private to BCT Pending CRs in 2019-20: Ker
BCT CRs on TOWN Lands:NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT74 5/12/2003 Town of BREWSTER (Ahlstrom Estate)3.30 0.00 3.30 pine/oak woods; abuts salt marsh 26 11
BCT79 10/8/2003 Town of BREWSTER (Davis-Hilbert)8.01 0.00 8.01 pine/oak woods 94 94
BCT84A 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)0.35 0.00 0.35 pine/oak woods 75 57
BCT84B 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)0.26 0.00 0.26 pine/oak woods 75 60
BCT84C 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)22.40 0.00 22.40 pine/oak woods 75 62
BCT84D 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)1.42 0.00 1.42 pine/oak woods 65 69
BCT84E 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)0.94 0.00 0.94 pine/oak woods 65 70
BCT69A 7/11/02 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley I)16.65 2.57 19.22 pine/oak; old bog 74 99
BCT69B 7/11/02 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley I)0.05 0.00 0.05 pine/oak woods 65 68
BCT69C 7/11/02 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley I)1.66 0.00 1.66 pine/oak woods 74 101
BCT107 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Krawitz)6.00 0.40 6.40 pondshore;pine/oak woods 20 33
BCT108A 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Betty's Curve)0.00 1.00 1.00 brackish marsh 37 94
BCT108B 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Betty's Curve)1.00 0.00 1.00 meadow 37 60
BCT108C 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Betty's Curve)1.22 0.00 1.22 meadow 37 92
BCT109 1/30/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Stranahan)9.72 0.12 9.84 pine/oak woods 26 39
BCT119A 6/22/2009 Town of BREWSTER (Pratt/Quivett Marsh)1.38 1.02 2.40 meadow; maple swamp 16 2
BCT119B 6/22/2009 Town of BREWSTER (Pratt/Quivett Marsh)1.34 0.06 1.40 meadow; maple swamp 16 3
BCT124 4/6/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Crystaloski)5.36 0.00 5.36 pine/oak woods 94 102
BCT128A 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)15.63 0.00 15.63 pine/oak woods 41 5
BCT128B 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)13.75 0.00 13.75 pine/oak woods 42 1
BCT128C 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)1.05 0.00 1.05 pine/oak woods 41 10
BCT128D 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)5.88 0.00 5.88 pine/oak woods 41 6
BCT141 5/22/2012 Town of BREWSTER (Seidel, Punkhorn)6.02 0.00 6.02 pine/oak woods 21 2
BCT152 12/30/2013 Town of BREWSTER (Bruch, Sheep Pond)33.17 0.00 33.17 pondshore;pine/oak woods 75 45,46
BCT154 3/13/2014 Town of BREWSTER (Copelas, Freemans Way)26.65 0.00 26.65 pine/oak woods 107 4,5,6,etc.
BCT156 9/26/2018 Town of BREWSTER (Viprino, Punkhorn)3.24 0.05 3.29 pine/oak woods 20 30
BCT160 12/29/2014 Town of BREWSTER (Eldredge, Drummer Boy Park)3.08 0.00 3.08 cedar grove;coastal bank
BCT163 7/15/2105 Town of BREWSTER (Santorello, Ret. 137)3.69 0.00 3.69 beech, pine, oak woods
BCT159 7/15/2105 Town of BREWSTER (Lalor, Punkhorn)0.58 0.00 0.58 pine/oak woods
BCT187 5/2/2018 Town of BREWSTER (Borden-Burk)27.02 0.00 27.02 pine/oak woods
8
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 7/31/2020
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT
BCT192 5/7/2019 Town of BREWSTER (C. Robinson)41.28 0.00 41.28 beech, pine-oak woods;pondfront
BCT197 12/16/2019 Town of BREWSTER (Peter.Heather Copelas)23.91 0.00 23.91 pine/oak woods
BCT CRs on TOWN Lands, Sub-Total ACREAGE:286.01 5.22 291.23
18 separate CRs Upland Wetland TOTAL
BCT CRs on TOWN and PRIVATE Lands, TOTAL ACREAGE:482.30 58.52 540.82
Upland Wetland TOTAL
9
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 1
ADA ACCESS SELF-EVALUATION – 2021 UPDATE
PART I. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS
Part I Section 1. Establishment of ADA Coordinator/Disability Commission
The Town of Brewster established a Committee for the Handicapped and appointed the first members in
1985. The Committee is now called the Access for All Committee (ACAC). The mission of the All Citizens
Access Committee is to advise and guide the town of Brewster and the general public regarding issues of
accessibility in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ACAC plans and works to
improve accessibility in various areas with members of town departments and committees, in keeping
with its mission. The Committee consists of seven members, four of which are appointed to three-year
terms. The Town Administrator, Peter Lombardi, serves as the Town’s ADA Coordinator.
Part I Section 2. Grievance Procedures
POLICY NO: 13
DATE APPROVED: 2/16/93
AMENDED: 8/25/97
TOWN OF BREWSTER
NON-DISCRIMINATION ON BASIS OF DISABILITY POLICY
The Town of Brewster does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or
treatment or employment in the operation of its programs, services or activities.
The Administrative Assistant to the Town Administrator has been designated to coordinate compliance
with the non-discrimination requirements contained in Section 35.107 of the Department of Justice
Regulations. Information concerning the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the rights
provided thereunder, are available from the ADA Coordinator.
Questions, concerns, complaints or requests for additional information regarding the ADA may be
directed to:
Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator
ADA Coordinator
Town Administrator’s Office
Brewster Town Offices
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631
Phone: (508) 896-3701, ext.130
Individuals who need auxiliary aids for effective communication in programs and services of the Town of
Brewster are invited to make their needs and preferences known to the ADA Coordinator.
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 2
Any person requesting an accommodation or wishing to file a grievance/ complaint based on
accommodation at any facility, or admission or access to, or treatment or employment in the operation
of its programs, services or activities. The following is the Town of Brewster procedure for such a
request/complaint.
Town of Brewster
Accommodation Request Procedure
The Town of Brewster has adopted an internal procedure providing for the prompt and equitable
resolution of complaints and requests for accommodation from employees and members of the general
public alleging any action prohibited by the U.S. Department of Justice regulations implementing title II
of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Title II states, in part, that "no otherwise qualified disabled
individual shall, solely by the reason of such disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied
the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination" in the employment practices and policies or the
provision of services, activities, programs and benefits by the Town of Brewster.
Initial accommodation requests should be submitted to: Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator/ADA
Coordinator, Town Administrator’s Office, 2198 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631, (508) 896-3701 ext.
130, who has been designated to coordinate ADA and other accommodation compliance efforts.
1. A request should be filed in writing or verbally, contain the name, phone number, and address
of the person filing it, and a brief description of the nature of the accommodation requested and
any alleged violation of regulations.
2. A request should be filed with the Town as soon as possible, but no later than 60 calendar days
after the party making the request becomes aware of the need for an accommodation or of an
alleged violation.*
3. An investigation, as may be appropriate, shall follow the filing of a request. The investigation
shall be conducted by the town employee or official deemed by the Town Administrator to be
most knowledgeable and unbiased in the nature of the problem. These rules contemplate
informal, but thorough, investigations, affording all interested persons and their
representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to a need or a problem.
4. A written determination as to the nature and validity of the request or complaint and a
description of the resolution or accommodation, if any, shall be issued by the Town
Administrator and a copy forwarded to the party making the request no later than 60 calendar
days after the filing of the request or complaint.
5. Accommodations identified as costing the Town of Brewster in excess of $5,000 may be
considered an undue hardship unless outside sources of funding are secured. Requests costing
more than $10,000 require advance budgeting and Town Meeting approval.
6. The ADA Coordinator shall maintain the files and the records of the Town of Brewster relating to
all accommodation requests and/or complaints filed.
7. The requesting party can further request a reconsideration by the Town of a case in instances
where he/she is dissatisfied with the resolution. The request for reconsideration must be made
within 10 calendar days to the Brewster Board of Selectmen.
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 3
8. The right of the person to a prompt and equitable resolution of the request or complaint filed
hereunder shall not be impaired by the person's pursuit of other remedies such as the filing of
an accommodation request or complaint with the responsible federal department or agency.
Use of this complaint procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies.
9. These rules shall be construed to protect the substantive rights of interested persons to meet
appropriate due process standards and to assure that the Town of Brewster complies with the
ADA and implementing regulations.
* A complaint related to employment may still be filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity
Commission within 180 days of the alleged discrimination if no acceptable resolution is reached with the
Town.
A complaint related to access to transportation may still be filed with the Secretary of Transportation
within 180 days of the alleged discrimination if no acceptable resolution is reached with the Town.
A complaint related to access to services may still be filed with the Attorney General's Office within 180
days of the alleged discrimination if no acceptable resolution is reached with the Town.
Adopted this __2___day of ______June__________, 2008
THE BREWSTER BOARD OF SELECTMEN
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 4
PART II. PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY
Part II Section 1. Facility Inventory
Assessments of Town facilities are conducted by Natural Resources and Recreation Department
Directors. The Brewster Access for All Committee (ACAC), a group of citizen volunteers, conducted a
number of assessments of town facilities, the most recent being in done from 2010 to 2013. These
assessments included both recreation and conservation areas (see Attachments) and are incorporated in
the inventory below. Each site also has a completed worksheet, also included in the Attachments to this
report.
CONSERVATION COMMISSION PROPERTIES:
1. Ahlstrom Conservation Area: Map 26 Lot 11 (3.29 acres)
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding
Public access: Trails leading to marsh and bay.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased with Land bank funds
Zoning: Rural Residential
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. Deeded for
conservation and open space preservation. CR held by Brewster Conservation Trust.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
2. Bakers Pond Conservation Area: 83 acres (11 parcels)
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking
Public access: There is public access, many trails, two parking areas (main lot in Orleans).
Type of public grant accepted: None, parcels purchased with Town funds.
Zoning: Rural Residential
Degree of Protection: Under custody and control of Conservation Commission and with CRs held by
Brewster Conservation Trust. Deeded for conservation and open space preservation.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
Unimproved roads, trails, steep grades.
3. Betty’s Curve Conservation Area: Map 37 Lots 60, 92, & 94 - 3.22 acres (Nevin Properties –Jolly
Whaler Motel and Trailer Park)
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 5
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Walking, birdwatching,
Public access: On Route 6A, public has access.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased with Land Bank funds
Zoning: Village Business
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. Deeded for
conservation, open space preservation and for re-routing of storm water from Route 6A that runs
directly into the Stony Brook Herring Run and Paines Creek. These parcels originally contained the
Jolly Whaler Motel and Restaurant and a Trailer Park. This has been the only un-development ever
done for conservation in Brewster. CR held by Brewster Conservation Trust.
2021 ADA Evaluation: Flat site, handicap parking at adjacent shopping center, possible wheelchair
access in future. No trails, but parking at edge of road off Lower Road and Paines Creek Road. Small
grassy picnic area at east side.
4. Crystaloski Property: Map 94 Lot 102 – 5.36 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking
Public access: Trails that connect to Water Department land.
Type of public grant accepted: Town funds
Zoning: Residential Light Density
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. Deeded for
conservation and open space preservation. CR held by Brewster Conservation Trust.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
5. Hawk’s Nest Farm Conservation Area: Map 9 Lots 14, 15 – 27.96 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased using Town funds.
Zoning: Rural Residential
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Brewster
Conservation Trust also holds a Conservation Restriction on these parcels. Deeded for conservation
and open space preservation.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 6
6. Indian Spring Conservation Area: Map 6 Lot 15 1.05 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking
Public access: Trail.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased with Town funds
Zoning: Residential Medium Density
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. Deeded for
conservation and open space preservation.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
7. Mothers Bog/Slough Road Woodlands Conservation Area: Map 8 Lot 2; Map 9 Lots 12,
16,22,23,24,25; Map 10 Lots 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 37, 51, 52, 53- 81.66 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking. Bow hunting allowed
during state designated bow-hunting season.
Public access: Numerous trails throughout these parcels.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased using CPA funds and State L.A.N.D. grant. Dennis Water
District paid for half of costs. Some parcels purchased with Land Bank funds, some with Town funds.
Zoning: Rural Residential
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Dennis
Water District holds a Wellfield Preservation Restriction on some of these parcels. The Brewster
Conservation Trust also hold CRs on some of these parcels. Deeded for conservation and open
space preservation.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
8. Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area: Over 800 acres located off Westgate Road in southwest
Brewster
Ownership: Town of Brewster-Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency:
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding
Public access: There is public access, with many trails.
Although, as indicated below there is an accessible viewing platform off Run Hill Road on Upper Mill
Pond. There is also a portable bathroom in the Punkhorn parking lot, off Run Hill Road, not
wheelchair accessible.
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 7
Type of public grant accepted: State grants have been used to purchase some of the parcels that
make up this parkland. CPA funds have also been used.
Zoning: Rural residential. All of these parcels are in a Zone II.
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Brewster
Conservation Trust also holds CRs on all of these parcels. Deeded for conservation and open space
preservation.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
Includes Upper Mill Pond water access:
This pond is off of Run Hill Road/Westgate Road, just after the parking lot to the Punkhorn
Parklands. There is one designated handicap parking space, which is van accessible. Its surface is a
firm dirt base with a thin layer of small-sized gravel.
There is an accessible platform (approx. 10' x 15'), with a built-in bench and it has a wide ramp
(almost 6') to access the platform. There is a portable bathroom in the lot across the street. This
has a very nice accessible platform for enjoying the sights and environment of the pond. The boat
ramp is an access area for boats and therefore not beach wheelchair accessible. The ACAC
Committee feels that not much more can be done to improve accessibility of the Upper Mill Pond
area.
9. Quivett Marsh Vista Conservation Area: Map 16 Lots 1, 2, 3 – 2.8 acres
(Pratt/Skyline Motel property)
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking, excellent vistas of
Quivett Marsh and Cape Cod Bay. Bench for sitting, one picnic table
Public access: Marked trail.
Type of public grant accepted: CPA funds, State L.A.N.D. grant funds, Brewster Conservation Trust
and Dennis Conservation Trust funds.
Zoning: Front is Residential Medium Density, back is Rural Residential
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Brewster
Conservation Trust also holds a Conservation Restriction on this parcel. Deeded for conservation and
open space preservation.
2021 ADA Evaluation: Accessible viewing platform off parking area. Trails are not accessible.
10. Read Kingsbury Conservation Area: Map 145 Lots 26 & 27, Map 144 Lot 65 - 26.60 acres (2
separate purchases Matthews and Jackson)
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 8
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking
Public access: Existing trails.
Type of public grant accepted: State L.A.N.D. grant and the Town of Orleans paid for half of the
purchase cost, Town CPA funds. These parcels are in their Zone II.
Zoning: Rural Residential
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Town of
Orleans Water Department also holds a Wellfield Preservation Restriction on these parcels. Deeded
for conservation, drinking water and open space protection.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
11. Sheep Pond Woodlands Conservation Area: Map 65 Lots 68, 69, 70; Map 74 Lots 99, 101; Map 75
Lots 57, 60, 62 – 46.31 acres (Rowley property)
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking
Public access: Gulls Way road runs through the center of this area. There are many trails and one
leads to Sheep Pond.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased with Land Bank funds
Zoning: 80% Rural Residential, 20% Residential Medium Density
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Brewster
Conservation Trust also holds a Conservation Restriction on all of these parcels. Deeded for
conservation and open space preservation. CR held by Brewster Conservation Trust.
2021 ADA Evaluation: Gulls Way – Flat and unpaved might be wheelchair accessible; trails/cart
paths not accessible. Adjacent to Cape Cod Rail Trail.
12. Spruce Hill Conservation Area: Map 102 Lot 17 - 18.70 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding
Public access: There are buildings on this property. There is a long cartpath leading to a boardwalk
and stairway that leads to a large beach on Cape Cod Bay. There is also a woodlands trail. There is
no portable bathroom.
Type of public grant accepted: Town funds
Zoning: Residential Medium Density
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. Deeded for
conservation and open space preservation.
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 9
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time. Cart path
is too steep.
13. Stranahan Conservation Area: Map 26 Lot 39 – 9.84 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding
Public access: The John & Kristy Hay Trail is here. No portable bathrooms. Two benches.
Type of public grant accepted: CPA funds and State L.A.N.D. Grant funds,
Zoning: Residential Medium Density
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. The Brewster
Conservation Trust also holds a Conservation Restriction on this parcel. Deeded for conservation and
open space preservation.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility.
14. Whitegate Farm Conservation Area: Map 94 Lot 94 – 8.01 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster - Brewster Conservation Commission
Management agency: Brewster Conservation Commission
Current use: Conservation and passive recreation
Condition:
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding
Public access: Trails leading back to Water Department lands. No portable bathrooms.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased with Land Bank funds
Zoning: Residential Light Density
Degree of Protection: Under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission. Deeded for
conservation and open space preservation. CR held by Brewster Conservation Trust.
2021 ADA Evaluation: This site is not considered suitable for ADA accessibility at this time.
RECREATION DEPARTMENT PROPERTIES:
1. Tennis Courts: Map 76 Lot 21, Underpass Road, 2.4 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster Recreation Department
Management agency: Recreation Department/Recreation Commission
Current Use: Tennis Courts: 4 adult courts, 4 youth courts
Condition: This is a new facility, in excellent condition
Recreation Potential: possibility of adding a basketball court?
Public Access: 21 parking spaces.
Type of public grant accepted: Town funds, CPA funds, USTA grant
Zoning: Commercial High Density
2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 10
Degree of Protection: Under custody and control of the Recreation Department/ Commission by
deed.
2021 ADA Evaluation: 1 van accessible parking space, wheelchair accessible pathways to courts, 1
portable bathroom –not wheelchair accessible
2. Freeman’s Way Athletic Fields: Map 119 Lot 4, Recreation Drive, 25.98 acres
Ownership: Town of Brewster Recreation Department
Management agency: Recreation Department/Recreation Commission
Current Use: 3 baseball fields, 1 soccer field
Condition: These fields have been in use since 1967. The Recreation Department does an excellent
job of maintaining them.
Recreation Potential: While there is a lot of space, this is located in a ZONE II and use is therefore
limited to the fields that have been developed. The Water Department strictly controls the amount
of fertilizer that may be used.
Public Access: Fields are available for rental by other groups and the charge are used for field
upkeep.
Type of public grant accepted: None. This land belonged to the Water Department and was granted
to the Recreation Department in 1967.
Zoning: Rural Residential
Degree of Protection: Under custody and control of Recreation Department by deed.
2021 ADA Evaluation: The Department is in the process of creating wheelchair accessible pathways
and viewing areas. There is plenty of space for handicap and van accessible parking, but no parking
has been delineated yet. There are 2 portable bathrooms, one is wheelchair accessible. There is a
plan in place to put a water station on the premise, which will be accessible.
The evaluation conducted by the Massachusetts Office on Disability at Freeman’s Way Athletic
Fields for the Brewster All Citizens Access Committee in 2012 is still valid. The Town continues to
work towards addressing barriers to people with disabilities identified during the visit. It is provided
in the Attachment.
Part II Section 2. Transition Plan
The Brewster Access for All Committee maintains a list of goals for improving accessibility throughout
the Town. This list includes improvements to recreation facilities and conservation properties, along
with recommendations for other public facilities. The Town is also still working on recommendations
made the evaluation conducted by Massachusetts Office on Disability.
1
2021 ADA Self Evaluation Worksheets – Conservation Properties
FACILITY INVENTORIES: CONSERVATION
LOCATION: AHLSTROM CONSERVATION AREA - Map 26 Lot 11 - 3.29 acres off Rt. 6A
PARKING
There is no parking here, hikers may park on Main Street, or at the Drummer Boy Park and
walk in.
SITE ACCESS
There are a number of trails that lead back to the Bay.
No benches, picnic tables or portable bathrooms.
Not considered suitable for an
accessible trail
LOCATION: BAKERS POND CONSERVATION AREA - 11 parcels - 83 acres off Bakers Pond
Road
PARKING
There is an open area for parking. There is no delineated parking, handicap or otherwise.
SITE ACCESS
There are a number of trails in this area. The terrain is
very uneven, rocky and hilly.
Site not considered suitable for
accessible trails.
There are no benches, picnic tables or portable
bathrooms.
LOCATION: BETTY’S CURVE CONSERVATION AREA – Map 37 Lots 60, 92, 94 - 3.22 acres Rt.
6A
PARKING
There is no parking on this property. It does abut a shopping center with 2 handicap spaces.
SITE ACCESS
There is very little area to walk on. These parcels were un-developed for conservation
essentially to provide an area to curtail stormwater runoff that was entering the Stony Brook
Herring Run and Paines Creek. Once runoff is contained in a detention basin-rain garden,
benches may be installed on the south side of the road.
At this time, there are no benches, picnic tables or portable bathrooms.
Possibility of creating accessible area on the site, but
not until the site is redesigned, stormwater is
contained.
As a flat site, it might be suitable for
wheelchair access in the future.
LOCATION: CRYSTALOSKI CONSERVATION AREA –Map 94 Lot 102 - 5.36 acres off Rt. 137
PARKING
There is no direct access to this site. One has to walk in from the road. There is no parking of
any kind. Trails lead back to Water Dept. land. This was purchased for wellfield protection.
SITE ACCESS
2
No benches, picnic tables or portable bathrooms. This site is not considered suitable
for handicap access.
LOCATION: HAWK’S NEST CONSERVATION AREA – Map 9 Lots 14, 15 -27.96 acres off Slough
Road
PARKING
There is no specific parking for this site. It is generally accessed from the adjacent Mother’s
Bog Area. There is no handicap parking.
SITE ACCESS
No benches, picnic table or portable bathrooms. This site is not considered suitable
for an accessible trail at this time.
LOCATION: INDIAN SPRINGS CONSERVATION AREA – Map 6 Lot 15 -1.05 acres on Rt. 6A
PARKING
Small dirt parking area, no delineated spaces. No handicap parking
SITE ACCESS
There is a short trail to the Indian Spring. This site is not considered suitable
for handicap access at this time.
LOCATION:MOTHER’S BOG/SLOUGH ROAD WOODLANDS CONSERVATION AREA- 81.66
acres on Slough Road
PARKING
The only parking available is a small dirt area off the road in front of a metal gate. There is
not handicap parking. There is a lovely old bog, possibly accessible in the future.
SITE ACCESS
No benches, picnic tables or portable bathrooms. Not accessible at this time.
LOCATION: PUNKHORN PARKLANDS – over 800 acres off West Gate Road
PARKING
There is a small dirt parking lot on the north side of the road. There is no handicap parking.
SITE ACCESS
There are many trails leading off of this site, none are currently accessible. In the future, Calf
Field Pond may be a possible for an accessible trail. It might also be a good site for another
viewing/fishing platform.
There is one bench near the Water Dept. building and another up by Eagle Point. There are no
picnic tables. There is a portable bathroom in the parking lot, but it is not wheelchair
accessible.
LOCATION: UPPER MILL POND – off Westgate Road – on right just after Punkhorn parking
lot
No marked spaces. Only handicap parking. Could do 1-2 van spaces, +2-3 regular handicap
spaces. This is the only Conservation Commission owned/controlled beach site.
3
SITE ACCESS
Accessible path of travel from passenger disembarking & parking to accessible entrance.
Parking is directly adjacent to viewing platform. Even, hard packed surface.
The accessible platform is 10’x15’, with a built in bench and a wide ramp (almost 6’) to access
the platform. Nice platform for enjoying the sights and environment of the pond. Beach is
basically an access/ramp area for boats.
No other benches, no picnic tables. One wheelchair accessible portable bathroom.
LOCATION: QUIVETT MARSH VISTA CONSERVATION AREA–Map 16 Lots 2,3 – 3.84 acres Rt.
6A
PARKING
There is a small dirt parking area for about 8 cars.
There are no delineated spaces.
There are no handicap parking
spaces.
SITE ACCESS
This is a beautiful site with lovely views of Cape Cod Bay. The trail is not level and goes over
grass.
There are 2 benches, one picnic table, no portable
bathrooms.
Possibly a future site for
accessibility.
LOCATION: READ KINGSBURY CONSERVATION AREA-Map 145 Lots 26, 27 -26.6 acres Wood
Duck Road
PARKING
There is no parking. It is essentially available only to walkers/hikers from the area or abutting
conservation lands. This was purchased for wellfield protection.
SITE ACCESS
There are a number of trails in the area.
No benches, picnic tables, no portable bathrooms.
This site does not lend itself to be
handicap accessible at this time.
LOCATION: SHEEP POND WOODLANDS CONSERVATION AREA- 46.31 acres off Rt. 137
PARKING
There is no parking for this conservation area, but it does abut a large paved State parking lot
for the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
SITE ACCESS
Gulls Way Road runs through the center of this conservation area . There are many trails and
one leads to Sheep Pond. This not considered ADA accessible, although it might be wheelchair
accessible if one stays on the road, which is flat and unpaved.
No benches, picnic tables or portable bathrooms
4
LOCATION: SPRUCE HILL CONSERVATION AREA –Map 102 Lot 17 – 18.70 acres –Rt. 6A
PARKING
There are 2-3 spaces in front of a split rail fence that blocks vehicle access to this trail. There is
other parking, but it belongs to the Brewster Historical Society. No handicap parking spaces.
SITE ACCESS
There is a long trail which leads to the Bay. The walkway is partially a wooden boardwalk.
This would be a good site to develop a wheelchair accessible boardwalk to an accessible
platform overlooking the Bay, however there are no plans at present to do this.
No benches, no picnic tables, no portable bathrooms A van accessible parking would
have to be installed in front of the
fence.
LOCATION: STRANAHAN CONSERVATION AREA – Map 26 Lot 39 – 9.84 acres off Rt. 6A
PARKING
There is possible parking along a road which skirts this area, otherwise access is from the
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History South Trail.
SITE ACCESS
The main trail is the John & Kristi Hay Trail. It is relatively steep in places and rocky.
No benches, picnic tables or portable bathrooms. This is not considered handicap
accessible, nor would it be suitable
for accessibility in the future.
LOCATION: WHITEGATE FARM CONSERVATION AREA – Map 94 Lot 94 -8.01 acres off Rt.
137
PARKING
There is a small dirt parking area, for a trail which
leads to Water Dept. land.
The trail is not accessible and is not
considered suitable for accessibility
in the future.
No benches, picnic tables or portable bathrooms.
1
2021 ADA Self Evaluation Worksheets - Recreation
Facility Inventory Location: FREEMANS WAY FIELDS
PARKING
Total Spaces Required Accessible Spaces
Up to 25 X 1 space
26-50 2 spaces
51-75 3 spaces
76-100 4 spaces
101-150 5 spaces
151-200 6 spaces
201-300 7 spaces
301-400 8 spaces
401-500 9 spaces
Specification for Accessible Spaces Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Accessible space located closest to accessible entrance X Lots of space to work with
Where spaces cannot be located within 200 ft of accessible
entrance, drop-off area is provided within 100 ft.
X
Minimum width of 13 ft includes 8 ft space plus 5 ft access aisle X
Van space – minimum of 1 van space for every accessible space, 8
ft wide plus 8 ft aisle. Alternative is to make all accessible spaces
11 ft wide with 5 ft aisle.
X
Sign with international symbol of accessibility at each space or
pair of spaces
X Plenty of space to create a van accessible
parking space
Sign minimum 5 ft, maximum 8 ft to top of sign X
Surface evenly paved or hard-packed (no cracks) X
Surface slope less than 1:20, 5% X
Curbcut to pathway from parking lot at each space or pair of
spaces, if sidewalk (curb) is present
NA
Curbcut is a minimum width of 3 ft, excluding sloped sides, has
sloped sides, all slopes not to exceed 1:12, and textured or
painted yellow
NA
SITE ACCESS, PATH OF TRAVEL, ENTRANCES
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Site Access
Accessible path of travel from passenger disembarking area and
parking area to accessible entrance
X Not done
Disembarking area at accessible entrance X Not done
Surface evenly paved or hard-packed X Not done
No ponding of water X In some areas
Path of Travel
Path does not require the use of stairs X Not done
Path is stable, firm and s lip resistant X Not done
3 ft wide minimum X Not done
Slope maximum 1:20 (5%) and maximum cross pitch is 2% (1:50). X Slop issues in some areas
Continuous common surface, no changes in level greater than ½
inch
X Not done
Any objects protruding onto the pathway must be detected by a
person with a visual disability using a cane
X Not done
Objects protruding more than 4” from the wall must be within
27” of the ground, or higher than 80”
X
Curb on the pathway must have curb cuts at drives, parking and
drop-offs
X
2
RESTROOMS – also see Doors and Vestibules
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
5 ft turning space measured 12” from the floor NA
At least one Sink:
Clear floor space of 30” by 48” to allow a forward approach NA
Mounted without pedestal or legs, height 34” to top of rim NA
Extends at least 22” from the wall NA
Open knee space a minimum 19” deep, 30” width, and 27” high NA
Cover exposed pipes with insulation NA
Faucets operable with closed fist (lever or spring activated
handle)
NA
At least one Stall:
Accessible to person using wheelchair at 60” wide by 72” deep NA
Stall door is 36” wide NA
Stall door swings out NA
Stall door is self closing NA
Stall door has a pull latch NA
Lock on stall door is operable with a closed fist, and 32” above the
floor
NA
Coat hook is 54” high NA
Toilet
18” from center to nearest side wall NA
42” minimum clear space from center to farthest wall or fixture NA
Top of seat 17”-19” above the floor NA
Grab Bars
On back and side wall closest to toilet NA
1¼” diameter NA
1½” clearance to wall NA
Located 30” above and parallel to the floor NA
Acid-etched or roughened surface NA
42” long NA
Fixtures
Toilet paper dispenser is 24” above floor NA
One mirror set a maximum 38” to bottom (if tilted, 42”) NA
Dispensers (towel, soap, etc) at least one of each a maximum 42”
above the floor
NA
Notes: 1 potable bathroom; 1 wheelchair accessible potable bathroom
FLOORS, DRINKING FOUNTAINS, TELEPHONES
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Drinking Fountains
Spouts no higher than 36” from floor to outlet
Hand operated push button or level controls
Spouts located near front with stream of water as parallel to front
as possible
If recessed, recess a minimum 30” width, and no deeper than
depth of fountain
If no clear knee space underneath, clear floor space 30” x 48” to
allow parallel approach
Notes: Fountain at soccer field and plans to add another water station at the facility.
3
Facility Inventory Location: Community Tennis Courts
PARKING
Total Spaces Required Accessible Spaces
Up to 25 X 1 space
26-50 2 spaces
51-75 3 spaces
76-100 4 spaces
101-150 5 spaces
151-200 6 spaces
201-300 7 spaces
301-400 8 spaces
401-500 9 spaces
Specification for Accessible Spaces Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Accessible space located closest to accessible entrance X
Where spaces cannot be located within 200 ft of accessible
entrance, drop-off area is provided within 100 ft.
X
Minimum width of 13 ft includes 8 ft space plus 5 ft access aisle X
Van space – minimum of 1 van space for every accessible space, 8
ft wide plus 8 ft aisle. Alternative is to make all accessible spaces
11 ft wide with 5 ft aisle.
X
Sign with international symbol of accessibility at each space or
pair of spaces
X
Sign minimum 5 ft, maximum 8 ft to top of sign X
Surface evenly paved or hard-packed (no cracks) X
Surface slope less than 1:20, 5% X
Curbcut to pathway from parking lot at each space or pair of
spaces, if sidewalk (curb) is present
X
Curbcut is a minimum width of 3 ft, excluding sloped sides, has
sloped sides, all slopes not to exceed 1:12, and textured or
painted yellow
X
SITE ACCESS, PATH OF TRAVEL, ENTRANCES
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Site Access
Accessible path of travel from passenger disembarking area and
parking area to accessible entrance
X
Disembarking area at accessible entrance X
Surface evenly paved or hard-packed X
No ponding of water X
Path of Travel
Path does not require the use of stairs X
Path is stable, firm and s lip resistant X
3 ft wide minimum X
Slope maximum 1:20 (5%) and maximum cross pitch is 2% (1:50). X
Continuous common surface, no changes in level greater than ½
inch
X
Any objects protruding onto the pathway must be detected by a
person with a visual disability using a cane
X
Objects protruding more than 4” from the wall must be within
27” of the ground, or higher than 80”
X
Curb on the pathway must have curb cuts at drives, parking and
drop-offs
na
4
RESTROOMS – also see Doors and Vestibules
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
5 ft turning space measured 12” from the floor
At least one Sink:
Clear floor space of 30” by 48” to allow a forward approach
Mounted without pedestal or legs, height 34” to top of rim
Extends at least 22” from the wall
Open knee space a minimum 19” deep, 30” width, and 27” high
Cover exposed pipes with insulation
Faucets operable with closed fist (lever or spring activated
handle)
At least one Stall:
Accessible to person using wheelchair at 60” wide by 72” deep
Stall door is 36” wide
Stall door swings out
Stall door is self closing
Stall door has a pull latch
Lock on stall door is operable with a closed fist, and 32” above the
floor
Coat hook is 54” high
Toilet
18” from center to nearest side wall
42” minimum clear space from center to farthest wall or fixture
Top of seat 17”-19” above the floor
Grab Bars
On back and side wall closest to toilet
1¼” diameter
1½” clearance to wall
Located 30” above and parallel to the floor
Acid-etched or roughened surface
42” long
Fixtures
Toilet paper dispenser is 24” above floor
One mirror set a maximum 38” to bottom (if tilted, 42”)
Dispensers (towel, soap, etc) at least one of each a maximum 42”
above the floor
Notes: There is an accessible portable bathroom in the spring, summer, and fall.
FLOORS, DRINKING FOUNTAINS, TELEPHONES
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Drinking Fountains
Spouts no higher than 36” from floor to outlet X
Hand operated push button or level controls X
Spouts located near front with stream of water as parallel to front
as possible
X
If recessed, recess a minimum 30” width, and no deeper than
depth of fountain
X
If no clear knee space underneath, clear floor space 30” x 48” to
allow parallel approach
x
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 1
……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
ALL CITIZENS ACCESS COMMITTEE OF BREWSTER
1673 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631
508-896-2737
March 2010
To: Charles Sumner, Brewster Town Manager
This is the second phase of our town review regarding accessibility. It deals with Brewster’s
recreational sites and ocean beaches, with the exception of the Captains Golf Course. We had
hoped to also include our review of the town’s pond beaches; however, with all the current beach
erosion and the subsequent parking issues, we felt it best to hand in our report now so that all
issues including accessibility will be considered when discussing possible solutions to the
situation.
RECREATIONAL SITES REVIEW March 2010
It would be nice to have all Brewster’s public recreational areas fully accessible. Our committee’s
purpose is to assess these sites and suggest ways to make as many of these places as fully
accessible, that is wheelchair accessible, as possible. Making areas wheelchair accessible benefits
not only those with disabilities but also the general public as well. The comments and
recommendations herein are a result of our surveys, especially those returned by people who have
disabilities, and our committee members.
Generally speaking, a good accessible pathway is one that has good drainage, a firm surface and
is about 5’ in width. (The minimum width of a pathway is 3’.) Accessible pathways should be
paved or compact such that a wheelchair will be able to move easily without spinning its wheels
or without having difficulty in controlling its direction along the pathway. There are many
acceptable pathway surfaces for accessibility needs: composite wood such as TREK, pavers,
cement, a thin layer of crushed bluestone on a firm, well drained dirt surface, macadam, and the
like. Loose gravel whether it be large or small stone is not a good surface for accessibility needs.
Bare ground is not necessarily a good base when it has poor drainage or when tree roots are present.
Grassy areas can be very uneven and bumpy and are not a good surface for wheelchairs to traverse.
Railings should be used in sloped areas.
Handicap parking: If there is only one handicap accessible parking spot, it should be a ‘van
accessible’ one, if possible. A standard handicap parking spot is 8’wide, some with a 5’access
aisle; a ‘van accessible’ one is 16’ total width: 11’wide + 5’aisle or 8’wide + 8’aisle.
Drummer Boy Park
Drummer Boy Park is not wheelchair accessible. There are no designated handicap parking spots,
the grassy surface may be pretty but it is uneven and bumpy, and the poor drainage makes much
of the park inaccessible to everyone after heavy rains. Maneuvering a wheelchair on the grassy
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 2
surface can be done but it is very difficult to control ones direction. Using a walker or other
mobility device is also very difficult. What seems necessary for Drummer Boy Park is for the
town to design and develop an overall plan for the park and its usage. These plans should
accommodate people with disabilities as much as possible. Perhaps a volunteer committee could
be appointed, with one of its members being from our ACAC. With regards to accessibility issues,
consideration should be given to the following:
There should be an accessible walkway to the new accessible children’s playground. There
should be direct, easy access from a ‘van accessible’ handicap parking spot to the accessible
pathway leading to the play area.
Several accessible connected pathways that would go to all parts of the Park---to the windmill,
the bandstand, the blacksmith’s shop, the top of the hill, etc. Possibly, a Braille Trail as well.
Handicap parking: Possibly have two separate parking areas - one for the playground and one
for everyone else, with at least one ‘van accessible’ handicap parking spot in each.
Scattered benches strategically placed for everyone’s use was suggested by many who took
our survey.
Wheelchair accessible bathroom facility.
1
Grist Mill/Herring Run Area
Road safety changes are currently being made in this area. There should be one van accessible
handicap parking spot at the site; prior to these changes, there was no handicap parking. There is
a new crosswalk which has a proper curb cut on the Mill (south) side. The Millsites Committee
has contacted our committee and together we hope to develop some accessible pathways along the
herring run. The Mill itself is unable to be made wheelchair accessible. This road work should be
up to ADA standards.
Whitecaps Ball Field
The wheelchair accessible viewing areas are behind home plate and up on the hill by the school.
The pathway to and on top of the hill is all macadam and is wheelchair accessible. The walkway
leading to behind home plate is part macadam and part dirt covered with crushed bluestone or
something like it.
As for handicap parking, there are four signed handicap parking spots - two by the sidewalk near
the school entrance, one of which is van accessible, and two nearby at the end of the side parking
row. Additional handicap parking is allowed on the hill overlooking the field, but these spots are
not on level ground and are therefore not recommended for wheelchair users.
For the last couple of years, a multiple seat golf cart has been used to help people get from their
cars to the game area. This is a very welcomed service requested by many from our survey.
Recommendations to improve accessibility:
Pave a new section of walkway from the lower end of the present macadam walkway going
over to the designated wheelchair area behind home plate, thus providing a single hardtop
pathway from the parking lot to the wheelchair section behind homeplate.
Improve the lighting by the handicap parking spots by the sidewalk. There is only one light
there now; two would be better.
Keep the golf cart constantly perusing the parking lots checking for new arrivals, as they do
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 3
now. Possibly set up designated pickup areas for the golf cart to assist the walkers.
Install a directional sign at the forked entrance into the parking lot to indicate where the
handicap parking is located. Visitors who use handicap parking have the tendency to go
straight to the front of the school, thus going the wrong way.
Captains Golf Course: This site will be reviewed at a later date.
Other Recreational Sites
Brewster Historical Society Museum
This building is not accessible as it is today. Hopefully the Town Hall consolidation will take
place and this Museum will be moving into the fully accessible Council on Aging Building.
The Crosby Mansion
The Crosby Mansion is wheelchair accessible on the first floor only. There is a ramp leading into
the side door. The pathway is part grass, part dirt, part gravel but is wheelchair usable. It seems
impractical to make any changes to improve the accessibility of this walkway as it seems sufficient
for the few days that the Mansion is open to the public.
OCEAN BEACHES
Ocean beaches were more popular than public pond beaches among those with disabilities.
Presently, there is only one ocean beach that can be considered wheelchair accessible and that is
Linnell Landing. Wheelchair accessible beaches will usually have some type of boardwalk, one
end of which has a ramp, the other end a turnaround area. The turnaround can be extended to be a
platform. The turnaround should be level and a minimum of 5’ square; the boardwalk should be a
minimum of 3’ wide. Having a bench mounted on the platform is a welcomed addition as long as
the platform is big enough to allow the wheelchair to move around.
The most popular ocean beaches indicated on our survey are, in order of preference: Breakwater
Beach, Crosby Landing, Linnell Landing and Paines Creek Beach, Mant’s Landing, Ellis Landing
and Saint’s Landing, and lastly, Point of Rocks Beach.
Breakwater Beach
This was the most popular ocean beach among those with disabilities, especially those using
wheelchairs. Although the beach is not wheelchair accessible, the view from the handicap parking
spots is very good and the view can be fully enjoyed while sitting in a car. There is a total of 59*
parking spaces, two (2) of which are designated handicap parking, none are designated ‘van
accessible‘. There is a portable potty but it is not an accessible one.
There is no easy way to make Breakwater Beach wheelchair accessible due to the current erosion
problems. We do recommend adding one (1) ‘van accessible’ handicap parking spot, making a
total of three(3) handicap parking spaces, bringing us in line with state requirements.**
Crosby Landing
Crosby Beach is such a wonderful open vista beach, and we think it can and should be one of
Brewster’s principal wheelchair accessible beaches. It has three (3) designated parking spaces, one
of which is ‘van accessible’. There are an additional two (2) handicap spaces, which are marked
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 4
on the pavement only. This is the only town beach with an ‘accessible’ portable potty.
The biggest problem with accessibility here is the boardwalk and wheelchair turnaround. This past
summer (2009) the DPW tried a new type of boardwalk. Slats of hardwood roped together leaving
about a 1-2” space in between each board. As a boardwalk it worked very well. At the parking
lot edge of the boardwalk, a permanent ramp of cement was installed and is a wonderful bridge
between the macadam and the boardwalk. At the other end, the beach end of the boardwalk, a long
section of the boardwalk was laid on top of the sand, set across the end of the walkway at a 90
degree angle to form a ‘T’ platform. Unfortunately, this platform was not level and not really wide
enough. It followed the surface of the sand and therefore was steeply sloped. It was not safe for
anyone using mobility aids such as a walker or wheelchair. Also the loose sand that was blown
on top of this platform made it excessively slippery for the wheels of the wheelchair. Wisely, at
some point this summer, this platform was removed.
We recommend a platform such as the one used at Linnell Landing. Making this platform level
and causing no damage to the beach is a challenge. One possible solution might be to build a
platform whose support posts would be of varying heights to adjust for the uneven surface of the
beach sand upon which it sits. This platform could be built in sections, as we believe the one at
Linnell Landing is, and removed and stored during the winter months.
_____________
*This information came from the January 2008 DPW’s report on Brewster’s Bayside Beaches.
**Disability Rights Laws in MA, February 2006, p. 10.
Linnell Landing
This is the best wheelchair accessible beach in Brewster. It has a short boardwalk which leads to
a level platform upon which is a usable bench. As long as the boardwalk is butted up to the
macadam at its edge, this setup works very well. There are two (2) handicap parking spots, none
are ‘van accessible’. The bench was not in use this summer because of its deteriorated condition.
This beach does not have an accessible bathroom facility.
We recommend adding one more handicap parking space, making a total of three, even though
the total number of parking spaces is just 24* . The reason for this is that Linnell Landing is at
present the best and only fully wheelchair accessible beach in Brewster. Out of these three parking
spots, one should be ‘van accessible’. We recommended replacing the bench on the platform and
installing a handicap accessible portable potty instead of the regular one usually used.
Paines Creek Beach
Paines Creek Beach has a wonderful vista and has one (1) handicap parking spot which allows for
excellent viewing of the area. There are two benches placed in the beach area. It has no accessible
bathroom.
Due to erosion, it seems unrealistic that wheelchair accessibility can be improved at this beach.
As for the parking---typically, if there is one handicap parking spot it should be a ‘van accessible’
one. This means it would have a total width of 16’. Since parking is so limited, it might not be
practical to change what is there now. We do hope that the one handicap parking spot will be kept
in the front area. As for the benches placed on the beach area, having at least one of them close to
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 5
the parking area rather than way down the beach, would make it easier for those who cannot walk
any distance.
Mant’s Landing
This beach has a wonderful view with a wide entrance to the beach area. It has two (2) handicap
parking spots; both have proper signage (one is somewhat buried in a dune), none are designated
‘van accessible’. There is a portable potty but it is not wheelchair accessible. There are no benches
on the beach for public use.
Mant’s Landing is one of the town’s beaches that could be made wheelchair accessible by setting
up a short walkway and a level platform similar to that at Linnell Landing. An accessible portable
potty could replace the one that is usually there. At present there are only two (2) handicap parking
spots out of the 41* parking spots. There should be three handicap parking spots in a lot this
size**. Adding one more handicap parking spot and making one (1) of them ‘van accessible‘ is
what we recommend. The two existing handicap parking spots are each approximately 16’ wide,
which is the width of a ‘van accessible’ spot, so space should not be a problem. Having a bench
on the accessible platform is also recommended.
Ellis Landing
This beach has one (1) handicap parking spot, which is not van accessible. It has a regular portable
bathroom. It is not wheelchair accessible and does not lend itself to being made so. The one
handicap parking space should be made ‘van accessible’, which might be done using the
crosshatching adjacent to the present handicap parking spot. A railing installed along one side of
the sloped beach entrance would make it safer for beachgoers.
____________
*This information came from the January 2008 DPW’s report on Brewster’s Bayside Beaches.
**Disability Rights Laws in MA, February 2006, p. 10.
Saints Landing
This beach has two (2) handicap parking spots, none are van accessible. The path to the beach is
sandy and sloped and has a center railing. This beach is not wheelchair accessible and also, like
Ellis Landing, does not lend itself to being made so. It is our recommendation that the more level
handicap parking spot on the west side be made ‘van accessible’. This should be easy to do
because of the crosshatching adjacent to it.
Point of Rocks Beach
This beach has no designated parking spaces, handicap or otherwise. Because of the location and
the steepness of the slope, we believe it would be difficult to have a regular handicap parking
space located here. If parking spots are ever designated here, then consideration should be given
to one regular handicap space.
Other Comments/Notes
Set up the accessible ramps and platforms at the beaches so they are available to the public
from May 1st thru late October.
We recommend using accessible portable bathrooms wherever possible but especially at
Drummer Boy Park and three particular beaches: Crosby Landing (which has one), Linnell
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 6
Landing, and Mant’s Landing.
Brewster does have two beach wheelchairs, loaned out during the summer and fall months by
the COA. One beach wheelchair is over 10 years old; the other was purchased in 2008. Both
wheelchairs have been used by adults and children. In 2008, these chairs were used a total of
42 days; in 2009, 26 days. Some beaches that are not wheelchair accessible can still be enjoyed
by those who can use these special beach wheelchairs as long as there is easy access to the
beach, that is, no large drop or gap from the parking lot surface to the beach sand. To use one
of these chairs, one must have a van or truck to transport it to the beach. We plan to make the
public more aware of the availability of these beach wheelchairs.
After we have completed our present work, our next task will be to see how best to follow up with
our recommendations. Some are a matter of remarking parking spaces; some involve much more.
Perhaps, to help minimize the cost of these recommendations, the town (or our committee if
authorized to do so) could possibly seek donations/grants to cover the costs of the benches and
materials for these recommended projects as well as seek assistance from organizations such as
Brewster’s Eagle Scouts and/or Americorps volunteers.
Possible Future Projects
Punkhorn Parklands: develop an accessible pathway with turnaround or viewing platform.
Spruce Hill: develop a wheelchair accessible pathway to a platform overlooking the beach.
Quivett Marsh Overlook: develop a wheelchair accessible pathway and overlook.
Sidewalks that are wheelchair accessible along Main Street.
Respectfully submitted by the Brewster All Citizens Access Committee, March 2010.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
ALL CITIZENS ACCESS COMMITTEE OF BREWSTER
1673 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631
508-896-2737
June 2010
To: Charles Sumner, Brewster Town Administrator
This is the third and last part of this committee’s report on accessibility here in Brewster.
Certainly not everything was reviewed, but we feel that the important items were: Brewster’s
public facilities, its beaches, its recreational sites. As mentioned before, our committee’s next
task will be to follow up on our recommendations. Some are a matter of remarking parking
spaces; some involve much more. First on our agenda is to prioritize our projects and develop a
plan for implementation. We have already begun to get information re funding and we will begin
in earnest in October after our summer vacation.
All the members of Brewster’s All Citizens Access Committee want you to know that we very
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 7
much appreciate the support we have received from you, the selectmen, the department heads,
and the various town committees. Thank you to all.
RECREATIONAL SITES REVIEW June 2010
Herein is the last part of our survey recommendations, which deals with the Captains Golf
Course, the Gristmill/Herring Run area, and Brewster’s three most popular ponds used by people
with disabilities: Sheep Pond, Long Pond and Upper Mill Pond.
Captains Golf Course
This facility was found to be very accessible and ADA compliant. To be fully accessible the
town might consider installing automatic door openers for the two entrance doors. Also, the
addition of an adaptive golf cart at Captains would provide some golfers with disabilities access
to the game.
Herring Run/Gristmill Site
The new “van accessible” handicap parking space with direct access to the new crosswalk as
well as the new curb cut and brick sidewalk in front of the Gristmill on the opposite side of the
road are well done.
There are possibilities on both sides of the Gristmill/Herring Run area for the development of
accessible pathways. One semi-accessible pathway already exists on the south side. Here, there
is a brick path that goes behind the Gristmill connecting to a dirt area that leads to a grassy
overlook. There is a bench at this overlook. This brick pathway needs repair, but is still usable.
It could be widened to 36” and extended to the overlook area.
Another possible accessible pathway on the south side would be from the other end of the new
sidewalk to the area where the ‘alewives’ sign is located. On the far left side of the grassy, rocky
ridge above where the sign is located, there appears to be an opening with no large stones. We
believe this might be able to be developed into an accessible path, leading to the sign and
possibly down to the lower landing. It was also noted that the alewives information sign could
possibly be done in Braille at some point in time.
Across the street on the north side, it seems possible to remake the existing path down to the first
pool on the right side into an accessible one. Although the slope is somewhat steep, we feel this
could still work as an accessible path. The path’s surface could be kept as is--a thin layer of
crushed stone over a firm dirt base--or it could be redone using flat pavers or some other natural
looking material. Basically, the surface should be stable, firm, slip resistant, smooth (not
bumpy) and have good drainage. Where there are a couple of tree roots that protrude in the
pathway, possibly some dirt could be added to smooth out the bumps. At the bottom of the slope
on the right side is a very nice, reasonably level, grassy/dirt area which could possibly be made
into an accessible viewing area for wheelchairs by improving the drainage and changing the
surface material. We feel this could be done and still retain the naturalness of the environment.
Note: There is about a 2-inch drop between the edge of the new brick walkway and the top edge
of this path. This should be filled in and smoothed out to prevent someone from tripping. We
have already notified the DPW about this.
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 8
There is a regular portable bathroom facility set up near the Gristmill. There seems to be no
appropriate place to locate an accessible bathroom facility at this location.
Sheep Pond
Sheep Pond Beach is located off of Fisherman’s Landing. The beach is at the bottom of a steep
hill. An accessible platform (approx. 10’x 12’with a 3 ½’wide ramp) is to the far right of the
beach. This platform has built-in benches on three sides and is considered accessible. There is
one designated handicap parking space, not van accessible. It is a paved parking lot. No
accessible bathroom is available.
We consider this beach to be inaccessible for beach wheelchairs. There is no curb cut for the
beach wheelchair to access the beach and there is too great a drop between the paved surface and
the beach sand for safe use of the beach wheelchair.
People using regular wheelchairs do enjoy using the accessible platform. However, to reach the
accessible platform from the handicap parking space, one has to diagonally cross over the
steeply inclined roadway. Our conclusion is that due to its topography, Sheep Pond is one of
those pond beaches which cannot easily be made into a safe, accessible beach area. Our only
recommendation is to leave the one handicap parking space as is, where it is most level.
Long Pond
Long Pond is located off of Crowell’s Bog Road. It has one unsigned (except on the pavement)
handicap parking space. There is no accessible platform or entrance way to the beach area. This
beach is presently accessible to beach wheelchairs; there is no curb cut to the beach area but the
curb itself is low. There is no accessible bathroom.
Long Pond is one pond beach which could be made fully accessible for both beach wheelchairs
and regular wheelchairs. There is a flat, semi-firm dirt surface to the right side of the beach, in
between the edge of the parking lot and the trees (where the kayaks now are). This would be a
perfect place to build a low, accessible platform--it would provide a water view as well as some
shade. This platform should not need railings because it is not a raised platform, but it should
have a small 2” safety edge to it. Having a bench of some sort is also recommended. The
existing corner handicap parking space is 12 ½’ wide. We suggest either combining the existing
handicap parking space with the adjacent parking space or two other parking spaces near the
proposed platform area to make one ‘van accessible’ space. Within this area a curb cut could
be made so that there would be direct access to the suggested accessible platform from the
handicap parking space as well as a second curb cut nearby for the beach wheelchair access to
the beach. We would also recommend having an accessible portable bathroom at this beach. For
the present, we recommend that the handicap parking space be properly signed.
Upper Mill Pond
Upper Mill Pond is off of Run Hill Road just after the parking lot to the Punkhorn Parklands.
There is one designated handicap parking space, which is van accessible. Its surface is a firm
dirt base with a thin layer of small-sized gravel. There is an accessible platform (approx 10’x
15), with a built-in bench and it has a wide ramp (almost 6’) to access the platform. There is no
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 9
accessible bathroom.
Upper Mill Pond has a very nice accessible platform for enjoying the sights and environment of
the pond. The beach is basically an access area for boats and therefore not beach wheelchair
accessible. Our committee feels that not much more can be done to improve the accessibility of
the Upper Mill Pond area. If at some time a portable bathroom facility is set up there, we would
recommend that it be an accessible one.
Other Pond Notes
Schoolhouse Pond: This pond has a small accessible viewing platform. There is no beach area,
no designated handicap parking area, no accessible portable bathroom facility. Our only
recommendation for this area is the installation of the handicap parking sign.
Walkers Pond: Beach area is considered inaccessible-it is on a steep incline. There is no
handicap parking designated, nor accessible portable bathroom facility. There is a picnic table
on the top bank which possibly could be made into an accessible area. At this time, we make no
recommendations re this pond area.
Slough Pond: This pond has a small parking area and is not considered accessible. At this time,
we make no recommendations re this pond area.
Guidelines
Pathways
Minimum of 36” wide; 48”-60” is preferred
Needs a 60” turnaround space
Smooth, stable, firm, level, slip resistant, well drained surface
Minimal slope to walkway
Hard packed or paved surface
Direct easy access from handicap parking space to pathway
Platforms
Reasonable size such as 10’x 12’, 12’x14’, large enough to accommodate a
wheelchair and possibly a bench
A 2”safety edge for low platforms; railings for raised platforms.
Access ramp should be a minimum of 3’wide.
Respectfully submitted by the All Citizens Access Committee of Brewster, June 2010.
……………………………………………………………………………………………
ACAC April 2013: Follow-Up Summary of 2008 Accessibility Survey
Town Hall/Public Facilities
The All Citizens Access Committee accessibility recommendations plus other relevant
suggestions from the town’s residents have been overwhelmingly supported and implemented by
the town. At Town Hall, there are: new accessible desks in the offices, an accessible counter in
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 10
the Tax Collector’s office, benches in the hallways, remote door openers at the accessible
entrance, and an additional handicap parking space by the front door. Programmatic access still
exists in the Assessor’s office. There is a plan to remodel a counter in the Assessor’s office
making the counter wheelchair accessible as well as providing the required turnaround space.
The outside signage at Town Hall needs to be addressed. There should be an international
handicap sign with an arrow near the front door of Town Hall showing everyone that the main
door is not the accessible entrance to the building. Also, if allowed by code, the large text sign
should be replaced with another international handicap sign with a directional arrow.
At the Fire Station, the entrance ramp has been repaired; at the Police Station, the public access
telephone located in the inside entry way has been lowered for easier access and the “van
accessible” handicap parking has been addressed. At the COA, a remote door opener has been
installed, the wooden door panels have been replaced by glass panels making a safer entry way,
a downstairs bathroom has been modified into a “unisex” accessible bathroom, and a plan to redo
the parking lot is in the planning stage. The Library eliminated the curbing by the book drop
and installed a railing.
Recreational Sites
Captains Golf Course: An accessible golf cart, the SoloRider, is now available for public use.
Drummer Boy Park: This project is now in the hands of the Drummer Boy Park Advisory
Committee. In 2012 the main accessible pathway was installed as was the pad for the portable
bathroom facility. The DBP Advisory committee is hoping to extend the accessible pathway in
the future. The handicap parking will be designated and marked in May 2013..
Freemans Way Recreational Fields: Jeff Dougan of the MA Office on Disability did a site
survey in August of 2012 which will be used as the basis for a long term recreation accessibility
improvement plan. He addressed both the player and spectator access issues.
White Caps Field: Jeff Dougan of the MA Office on Disability did a site review in April of
2013, which will be used as a guide for making this area more accessible to all.
Grist Mill Site: There is now a completed accessible pathway around the western side of the
grist mill. It is hoped that more of the Mill Site area can be made accessible in the future.
Ocean/Pond Beaches The accessibility status of Brewster’s ocean beaches is primarily
determined by erosion and the winter of 2012-2013 has caused severe erosion issues that need to
be addressed before planning can be resumed regarding wheelchair accessibility at these
beaches. Linnell Landing is Brewster’s only wheelchair accessible beach. A new accessible
platform is scheduled to be built in May/June of 2013. There is also an accessible portable
bathroom facility located at this site. At Paines Creek Landing there has been discussion to
provide an accessible walkway for seasonal use. However, repairs to the culvert there and
erosion problems have delayed these plans.
2020 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan ADA Self Evaluation 11
All Brewster’s ocean beaches are beach wheelchair accessible, with the exception of Ellis
Landing. The town now has three new beach wheelchairs: two Mobi-Chair beach wheelchairs
and one J-Mac beach wheelchair. The Mobi-Chairs float in the water and fold up making them
easy to transport.
There are four Brewster ponds that have public landings or beaches:
• Sheep Pond has a public beach with a platform but is considered inaccessible to both
wheelchairs and beach wheelchairs due to its surrounding topography
• Schoolhouse Pond has an accessible platform but no beach. There is no designated
handicapped parking space.
• Upper Mill Pondin the Punkhorn Parklands has an accessible platform but no beach. An
accessible portable bathroom facility is there as well as a designated handicap parking
space.
• Long Pond has a beach that is beach wheelchair accessible only. Handicap parking is
available but it needs to be revised to include a “van accessible” space. Long Pond has
the potential to be a fully accessible beach area with accessible picnic tables and an
accessible portable bathroom. It can accommodate a small accessible platform as well as
an accessible walkway.
Possible Future Projects:
• Long Pond, accessible beach
• Second accessible ocean beach, possibly Mant’s Landing
• Accessible pathway at Spruce Hill
• Accessible pathways on Conservation land
• Accessible pathways on lands held in trust by the Brewster Conservation Trust.
Submitted by Maureen Steinmann, Chair ACAC
………………………………………………………………………………………………..