HomeMy Public PortalAbout2014 Open Space & Recreation Update 90 Route 6A • Sandwich, MA • 02563
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Sustainable Environmental Solutions
Horsley Witten Group
Town of Brewster, Massachusetts
2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan
March 7, 2014
Submitted to:
Ms. Elizabeth Taylor
Chair, Open Space Committee
Brewster Town Hall
2198 Main Street
Brewster, Massachusetts 02631
Submitted by:
Horsley Witten Group, Inc.
Acknowledgements
Special thanks are due to the following:
Authors
This 2014 update was authored by Elizabeth Taylor, Chair of the Brewster Open Space Committee and
Planning Board member, and Horsley Witten, Group with the assistance and oversight of the Open Space
Committee. Wherever prudent, sections of this Plan were borrowed, adapted and/or reprinted from
existing Town of Brewster Planning Documents in order to provide consistency and integration among
them, especially the most recent update of the Open Space and Recreation Plan, prepared by Elizabeth
Taylor, the Open Space Committee and Helios Land Design in 2007.
2014 Open Space Committee Members
Elizabeth Taylor
Jeanne Boehm
Gary Christen
Danielle Jesudovich
Don Keeran
William Klein
Tom Kowalski
Keith Johnson
Peter Norton
Other Contributors
James Gallagher, Administrator, Brewster Conservation Commission
Chris Miller, Director, Brewster Department of Natural Resources
Sue Leven, Brewster Town Planner
Ellen Bearse, Director, Brewster Recreation Department
Dave Tately, Brewster Deputy Assessor
Bill Hoag, Chair, Brewster Planning Board
Doug Erickson, Member, Brewster Pathways Committee, Mill Sites Committee
All Citizens Access Committee
Brewster Pathways Committee
Jack Clarke, Chair, Brewster Bikeway Committee
Jim O’Leary, Member, Brewster Finance Committee
Stephen Jones, President, Brewster Historical Society
Mark Robinson, Executive Director, Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc.
Michael Lach, Assistant Director, The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc.
Peter Johnson, President of the Brewster Conservation Trust
Tom Cambareri, Program Manager, Water Resources, Cape Cod Commission
Scott Michaud, Hydrologist, Water Resources, Cape Cod Commission
Heather McElroy, Natural Resources Specialist, Cape Cod Commission
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Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan i Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Table of Contents
Section 1. Plan Summary ....................................................................................................................... 1
Section 2. Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 2
A. Statement of Purpose ........................................................................................................................ 2
1. Progress Since the 2007 Plan ........................................................................................................ 2
B. Planning Process and Public Participation ........................................................................................ 6
C. Enhanced Outreach and Public Participation for Environmental Justice Populations ...................... 7
Section 3. Community Setting ............................................................................................................... 8
A. Regional Context .............................................................................................................................. 8
B. History of the Community .............................................................................................................. 10
C. Population Characteristics............................................................................................................... 12
1. Population Growth ...................................................................................................................... 12
2. Population Density ...................................................................................................................... 13
3. Age .............................................................................................................................................. 13
4. Income and Employment ............................................................................................................ 14
Growth and Development Patterns ......................................................................................................... 17
5. Patterns and Trends ..................................................................................................................... 17
6. Infrastructure ............................................................................................................................... 17
7. Long-term Development Patterns ............................................................................................... 19
Section 4. Environmental Inventory and Analysis ............................................................................... 22
A. Geology, Soils and Topography ...................................................................................................... 22
1. Geology and Topography ............................................................................................................ 22
2. Soils............................................................................................................................................. 23
3. Landscape Character ................................................................................................................... 24
B. Water Resources ............................................................................................................................. 24
1. Watersheds .................................................................................................................................. 24
2. Freshwater Lakes and Ponds ....................................................................................................... 25
3. Marine Surface Waters ................................................................................................................ 27
4. Aquifer Recharge Areas .............................................................................................................. 28
5. Flood Hazard Areas .................................................................................................................... 29
6. Wetlands and Vernal Pools ......................................................................................................... 30
C. Vegetation ....................................................................................................................................... 31
1. Coastal Plant Communities ......................................................................................................... 31
2. Freshwater Plant Communities ................................................................................................... 32
3. Upland Plant Communities ......................................................................................................... 32
4. Rare Plant Communities ............................................................................................................. 34
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan ii Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
5. Public Shade Trees ...................................................................................................................... 35
D. Fisheries and Wildlife ..................................................................................................................... 37
1. Inventory ..................................................................................................................................... 38
2. Vernal Pools ................................................................................................................................ 41
3. Corridors for Wildlife Migration ................................................................................................ 41
4. Rare Species ................................................................................................................................ 41
E. Scenic Resources and Unique Environments .................................................................................. 42
1. Scenic Heritage Landscapes ........................................................................................................ 42
2. Cultural and Historic Areas ......................................................................................................... 44
3. Unique Environments ................................................................................................................. 45
F. Environmental Challenges .............................................................................................................. 45
1. Wastewater Management ............................................................................................................ 46
2. Stormwater Management ............................................................................................................ 46
3. Coastal Erosion and Flooding ..................................................................................................... 47
4. Biodiversity and Habitat Fragmentation ..................................................................................... 47
5. Climate Change ........................................................................................................................... 47
6. Hazardous Waste ........................................................................................................................ 48
7. Solid Waste Disposal .................................................................................................................. 48
8. Forestry Management ................................................................................................................. 49
9. Environmental Equity ................................................................................................................. 52
Section 5. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest ............................................. 54
A. Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 54
1. What is Open Space? .................................................................................................................. 54
2. What is “Protected” Property? .................................................................................................... 54
3. Importance of Protecting Open Space......................................................................................... 55
4. Brewster’s Open Space Inventory ............................................................................................... 55
B. Private Parcels ................................................................................................................................. 55
1. Agricultural Lands ...................................................................................................................... 57
2. Forested Lands ............................................................................................................................ 57
3. Recreation Lands ........................................................................................................................ 57
4. Private Lands Significant for Water Resource Protection .......................................................... 57
5. Priority Areas for Protection of Rare Species ............................................................................. 57
6. Conservation Restrictions and other Less than Fee Interests ...................................................... 58
7. Other Resources .......................................................................................................................... 58
8. Developable Land ....................................................................................................................... 58
C. Public and Nonprofit Parcels .......................................................................................................... 58
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan iii Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
1. Town Conservation Commission Land and Facilities ................................................................ 59
2. Town Recreation Department Land and Facilities ...................................................................... 59
3. Other Municipal Open Space and Recreation Land and Facilities ............................................. 60
4. State Conservation and Recreation Land .................................................................................... 62
5. Brewster Conservation Trust Land ............................................................................................. 62
6. Orenda Wildlife Land Trust ........................................................................................................ 63
7. The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts ......................................................................... 63
8. Camps and Sporting Clubs .......................................................................................................... 63
9. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History ....................................................................................... 63
Section 6. Community Vision .............................................................................................................. 64
A. Description of Process .................................................................................................................... 64
B. Community Survey Results ............................................................................................................ 64
1. Town Actions for Protection of Conservation Land ................................................................... 65
2. Town Actions for Maintenance of Recreational Facilities.......................................................... 65
3. Needs ........................................................................................................................................... 66
4. Favorite Conservation and Recreation Areas .............................................................................. 68
5. Accessing Information about Conservation/Recreation Opportunities ....................................... 68
C. Statement of Open Space and Recreation Goals ............................................................................. 69
Section 7. Analysis of Needs ............................................................................................................... 70
A. Summary of Resource Protection Needs ........................................................................................ 70
1. Protection of Public Water Supply .............................................................................................. 70
2. Protection of Marine and Fresh Surface Waterbodies ................................................................ 70
3. Habitat Protection ....................................................................................................................... 70
4. Protection of Agriculture ............................................................................................................ 71
5. Cultural and Historical Resources Protection ............................................................................. 71
B. Summary of Community’s Needs ................................................................................................... 72
1. Public Beach Access ................................................................................................................... 72
2. Forested Lands Access ................................................................................................................ 72
3. Safe Bicycle Routes .................................................................................................................... 73
4. A Variety of Recreation Opportunities for All User Groups ...................................................... 73
C. Summary of Management Needs .................................................................................................... 73
Section 8. Goals and Objectives .......................................................................................................... 75
A. Goals and Objectives ...................................................................................................................... 75
Section 9. Action Plan .......................................................................................................................... 77
Section 10. Public Comments ................................................................................................................ 94
A. Public Forum, June 12, 2013 .......................................................................................................... 94
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan iv Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
B. Letters of Review ............................................................................................................................ 97
C. Comments via Email ....................................................................................................................... 99
Section 11. References ......................................................................................................................... 109
Tables
Table 3-1. Brewster’s Shared Resources
Table 3-2. Median Household Income and Poverty Status for Town of Brewster, Barnstable County, and
State of Massachusetts in 2000 and 2010
Table 3-3. Cape Cod Growth Rate 1920-2012
Table 3-4. Brewster Population Growth Rate, 1920-2010
Table 3-5. Brewster Age Profile
Table 3-6. Income and Employment for Town of Brewster, Barnstable County, and State of
Massachusetts in 2000 and 2010
Table 3-7. Brewster Zoning Districts and Bylaws
Table 3-8. Summary of Brewster Buildout Analysis
Table 4-1. Brewster’s Impaired Freshwater Ponds
Table 4-2. Brewster’s Impaired Marine Surface Waters
Table 4-3. Brewster’s MESA-listed Plant Species
Table 4-4. Brewster’s MESA-Listed Wildlife Species
Table 5-1. Significant Privately Owned Parcels
Figures
Figure 3-1. Regional Context, Brewster, Massachusetts (Required Map 1)
Figure 3-2. Environmental Justice Populations, Brewster, MA (Required Map 2)
Figure 3-3. Town of Brewster Zoning Map (Required Map 3)
Figure 4-1a. Brewster Soils (Part of Required Map 4)
Figure 4-1b. Brewster Geologic Features (Part of Required Map 4)
Figure 4-2. Brewster’s Unique Features (Required Map 5)
Figure 4-3. Brewster’s Water Resources (Part of Required Map 6)
Figure 4-4. Brewster’s Drinking Water Supply Wells and Protection Areas (Part of Required Map 6)
Figure 4-5. Brewster’s Flood Hazard Areas (Part of Required Map 6)
Figure 4-6. Brewster’s Wetland Resource Areas (Part of Required Map 6)
Figure 4-7. Brewster’s Endangered Species Habitat (Recommended Map F)
Figure 4-8. Brewster’s Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (Part of Required Map 5)
Figure 5-1. Brewster’s Inventory of Open Space (Required Map 7)
Figure 6-1. Survey responses to how important it is to preserve different types of land in Brewster
Figure 6-2. Summary of Respondent Resource/Facility Importance for Future Planning Needs
Figure 6-3. Word clouds of survey respondents’ favorite conservation areas (left) and favorite recreation
areas (right)
Figure 9-1. Brewster’s Action Plan (Required Map 8)
Appendices
Appendix A. ADA Inventory
Appendix B. Community Survey Results
Appendix C. Town of Brewster Open Space Accomplishments
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest
Appendix E. Parcels Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Trust
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 1 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
SECTION 1. PLAN SUMMARY
The 2014 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 2014.
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 2014 Open Space and Recreation Plan update, the town conducted a comprehensive review of the
2007 Plan as well as 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 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 2014 Open Space and Recreation Plan
include:
1. Protect and maintain a maximum amount of open space for the purpose of ensuring protection of
a sufficient safe drinking water supply to meet the needs of Brewster’s 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;
3. Plan, coordinate and implement open space protection measures that preserve habitat diversity
and protect marine and fresh surface water resources;
4. Provide a variety of recreation opportunities, which accommodate the current and future needs of
the community, and that are in close proximity to all residential areas; and
5. Promote greater coordination and communication about community open space and recreation
needs among local stakeholders and residents as well as with surrounding communities and the
region.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 2 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
SECTION 2. INTRODUCTION
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”
(OSC, 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 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 purpose of the 2014 OSRP is to update the 2007 OSRP and maintain the town’s eligibility for state
funding assistance for open space and recreation purchases and improvements. This 2014 OSRP update
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 reviews progress since the 2007 OSRP, identifies new issues or changing
conditions since that time, and assesses future needs based on community trends. The 2014 OSRP also
provides a realistic action plan to address the issues, challenges and opportunities to meet the
community’s existing and future open space and recreation needs.
1. Progress Since the 2007 Plan
Brewster’s previous open space planning efforts include the 1985 Open Space Plan, the 1999 Open Space
and Recreation Plan and the most recent 2007 Open Space and Recreation Plan. The primary goals of the
2007 OSRP included:
• “Assurance that there is adequate supply of safe drinking water to meet all of the needs of
residents of Brewster in the year 2020;
• Maintenance of the rural character and identity of Brewster;
• Ensure habitat diversity through protection of wetlands as well as critical uplands;
• Ensure preservation of a variety of rural recreational activities and high-quality natural
environments in close proximity to all residential areas; and
• A future, with Brewster, fully developed, its appearance that of a small coastal community in
harmony with its natural setting and in balance with the natural carrying capacity of the land.”
Over the last five years, the town has been making progress on each of these broad goals, as described in
the sections that follow.
a) Drinking Water Protection
Brewster’s ongoing commitment to conserving land for the purposes of drinking water protection is
evident in Figure 4.4. Over the last five years, the town has acquired a number of priority sites or obtained
easements for wellheads. The town has also acquired parcels or obtained easements for lands within
Zone IIs to its own drinking water supply wells as well as to neighboring towns’ drinking water supply
wells.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 3 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
In addition to acquisition of lands for the protection of drinking water supplies, over the last five years the
town has also developed regulations that further the protection of these lands. Most notable is Brewster’s
Water Quality Protection zoning bylaw, which was approved by the Attorney General in 2009. This
bylaw restricts development within Zone I and Zone II areas, and also requires a set of performance
standards for development within Zone I, Zone II, and the District of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC).
Brewster’s DCPC, designated by the Cape Cod Commission in 2008, is a powerful planning tool that
allows a town to adopt special rules and regulations to protect natural resources.
b) Preservation of Rural Character
Preservation of Brewster’s rural character is important to many town residents. Since the 2007 OSRP,
Brewster has been involved in several initiatives related to preservation of the town’s rural character,
namely:
• The Brewster Heritage Landscape Inventory Reconnaissance Report and related initiatives;
• Brewster Bikeways Committee bicycle advocacy initiatives; and
• Work to increase Scenic Road designations.
The Brewster Reconnaissance Report is the product of collaboration among the Cape Cod Commission
(CCC), Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Boston University
Preservation Studies Program (BU) and local government staff, boards and committees. The Report was
developed under the Heritage Landscape Inventory program (HLI), which is designed to help
communities identify a wide range of landscape resources, particularly those that are significant and
unprotected. The focus is on landscapes that have not been identified in previous survey efforts in a given
community. Another important goal of the program is to provide communities with strategies for
preserving heritage landscapes.
The priority landscapes identified in the Reconnaissance Report include:
• Cape Cod Sea Camps;
• Great Fields Road;
• Old King’s Highway; and
• Stony Brook Valley.
The town is now using the recommendations and action items outlined in the report to preserve these
priority landscapes and overcome the challenges presented by the town-wide concerns.
Since the 2007 OSRP, the Brewster Bikeways Committee has been involved in a number of initiatives to
improve Brewster’s bikeability. Many of these activities came out of the objectives and action items
identified in the 2007 Plan. For example, one of the 2007 Plan action items was: “Encourage safer
interaction between bicyclists and motorists through awareness educational programs/ pamphlets. Include
bicycle safety and ‘share the road’ information in visitor brochures and literature. Enforce regulations/
laws for both motorists and bicyclists.” The Bikeways Committee has produced educational brochures
and maps, which have been distributed to bike shops. In collaboration with the Police Department and
Department of Public Works, the Committee has also placed “Share the Road” signs around town to
remind vehicle drivers that they aren’t the only users of town roads. The Committee has also created a
“Bike Brewster” Facebook page to provide outreach about biking in Brewster.
Since the 2007 OSRP, the Brewster Planning Board has been working on scenic road designations for
some of the town’s roads. However, there have not been any official designations during that time. The
town hopes to continue this work over the next seven-year planning period.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 4 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
c) Habitat, Wetlands and Uplands Protection
The Town of Brewster has historically been committed to protecting its aquatic and land-based natural
resource areas, and since 2007, the town has accomplished a number of initiatives. The Open Space
Committee has been maintaining an up-to-date working priority parcel map, which includes evaluation
criteria, such as: size of the parcel; whether the site contains a certified or potential vernal pool, wetlands
or buffer to wetlands; whether the site links to existing open space; whether the site has been identified as
wildlife habitat; whether the parcel is important for protection of ponds; whether the site is within a zone
of contribution; and if it is a possible future wellfield land. These criteria are used to prioritize parcels for
acquisition and protection. The Open Space Committee also continues to work with landowners to
donate parcels or create conservation easements for open space.
The town has taken a holistic approach to the protection of its water resources through the development of
a multi-phased Integrated Water Resource Management Plan (IWRMP). Phase II of the IWRMP,
completed in January 2013, included a detailed assessment of the issues related to Brewster’s freshwater
and marine water resources, and made a series of recommendations for protection of these resources,
many of which were related to wastewater and stormwater management. The town is currently working
on Phase III of the IWRMP, which will include the implementation of many of the Phase II
recommendations.
A primary focus of the IWRMP is to develop strategies to meet the requirements of the Pleasant Bay
Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for nitrogen. The Town of Brewster has been working with the
other Pleasant Bay watershed communities of Orleans, Harwich and Chatham on the Pleasant Bay
TMDL. Much of this work has been done in conjunction with the Pleasant Bay Alliance, a municipal
organization made up of the four towns to coordinate management activities within the watershed. For
example, in 2010 the Pleasant Bay Alliance commissioned the development of a Fertilizer Management
Plan, given that fertilizers account for 16% of the watershed nutrient load in Pleasant Bay.
The Town of Brewster has also developed a draft Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan to identify specific on-
going natural hazards, understand specific locations where the town is vulnerable to these hazards, and
establish a mitigation strategy to reduce the risks associated with these hazards. Impacts of natural
hazards, such as flooding and coastal erosion, are a particular concern for Brewster’s natural resource
areas. The town aims to finalize the Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan this year.
Since 2007, the Town of Brewster has also been working with the Town of Harwich to monitor
mitigation efforts on Long Pond, a resource shared between the two towns. In 2007, the Town of
Brewster and Town of Harwich determined that a phosphorus (P) inactivation treatment was appropriate
and sufficient to improve conditions and support the designated uses of Long Pond. Since 2007, the
towns have been monitoring conditions in Long Pond as a consequence of the phosphorus inactivation.
The fall 2007 inactivation of phosphorus by aluminum in Long Pond has roughly doubled water clarity in
the summer through 2012, although the annual pattern of a decrease in early fall is still evident and may
be related to nutrient inputs at that time. There has been a concurrent shift in the phytoplankton
community to less algae overall and far less cyanobacteria, although several problem species from the
pre-treatment period have been observed in late summer of 2010-2012 at low levels. The observed
changes in water clarity and phytoplankton are desirable and consistent with expectations from other P
inactivation treatments, although the duration of benefits is uncertain (WRS, 2013).
The Town of Brewster has also fostered the organization of the Brewster Friends of Lands, Aquatics,
Trails, and Shellfish (FLATS) volunteer group. Created in early 2013, Brewster FLATS is a volunteer
network dedicated to building a strong, unified community through the protection, preservation and
enhancement of Brewster’s valuable natural resources. With guidance from the Department of Natural
Resources, the Brewster FLATS group is working to expand environmental stewardship throughout the
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 5 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
community. The network of more than 100 dedicated volunteers is helping to build Brewster’s shellfish
program, collect water quality data on Brewster ponds, keep beaches clean and maintain walking trails.
In collaboration with local and regional governmental, private and non-profit stakeholders, including the
Brewster Conservation Trust, the town held its first Brewster Conservation Day in 2012. This annual
event, held at Drummer Boy Park provides education and outreach to residents and visitors about
conservation and preservation of natural, historic and cultural resources in Brewster and across Cape Cod.
Brewster also continues to manage and correct tidal restrictions to promote enhanced flushing. Four tidal
restrictions have been restored since 2007, including: the Sea Street culvert, Orleans/Brewster Bike Trail
culvert, Paines Creek at Freemans Pond culvert, and Paines Creek at Route 6A culvert.
d) Provision of Recreation Opportunities in Close Proximity to Residential Areas
The town has made a number of improvements to recreation areas and facilities in Brewster. Some of
these improvements have been related to improving accessibility at recreation areas. The Brewster All
Citizens Access Committee has also recently conducted a comprehensive review of accessibility at town
facilities. See Appendix A for the ADA Inventory.
The Recreation Department is also currently working on plans to make each of the following properties
more accessible. The basic improvements will be installing accessible walkways.
• Freemans Way Fields
• Long Pond Beach
• Gage’s Field
• Town Hall Fields
In June of 2009, the Town of Brewster broke ground on a new outdoor tennis facility, located on
Underpass Road. This facility replaced four full-sized courts that were previously located on Route 6A
behind the Brewster Fire Department. The new facility has four full-sized courts, and four youth courts
(18 feet by 36 feet) and were financed by the Town of Brewster, a United States Tennis Association
(USTA) Grant and Community Preservation Act Funds. The courts opened for play in June 2010.
The town has made a number of improvements to its trail networks, and hopes that the newly formed
Brewster FLATS volunteer group can further these efforts. The Conservation Commission, Natural
Resources Department, Brewster Conservation Trust and FLATS group have been working to develop
trail maps for many of Brewster’s trails. They have also just finished a new trail guide. The Brewster
Walking Trails 2013 edition has full color map of the town, with descriptions and individual trail maps
for 11 specific trails. The town has also continued with the Brewster Pathways connections through town,
to Harwich, Dennis and Orleans with just two small connections left to be negotiated.
e) Growth Management
Brewster has been taking a pro-active approach to manage where and how growth occurs within the town.
Over the last five years, the town has implemented a number of zoning amendments which have curbed
development pressure in sensitive areas while simultaneously increasing open space. For example, in
2009, the town adopted a Natural Resource Protection Design zoning bylaw, which is intended to protect
water resources and preserve the open space by fostering compact development patterns. The carefully
thought-out standards use flexible regulations for density and lot dimensions and promote and encourage
creativity in neighborhood design.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 6 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
In 2012, Brewster conducted a town-wide buildout analysis to assess where and how growth could occur
under current zoning and regulations. The town is now in the process of identifying where stronger
regulations are needed to protect sensitive areas that are vulnerable to development pressure.
B. Planning Process and Public Participation
The Brewster Open Space Committee (OSC) is charged by the Town of Brewster with keeping the Open
Space and Recreation Plan updated and current. The OSC is also responsible for making open space
acquisition recommendations to the Town of Brewster. This is accomplished through a comprehensive
prioritization cataloging system, which assesses all areas of open space within the Town of Brewster not
presently owned by the town as well as parcels of land which are currently developed, but that with a
change in ownership, could see more intense use. These open space purchases are funded through
Community Preservation Act funds and grant funding. The OSC was assisted in the development of the
2014 OSRP by the Brewster Planning Department and Horsley Witten Group, Inc. The OSC also
coordinated with other municipal departments, including the Board of Health, Natural Resources
Department, Board of Selectmen, Board of Assessors, and Building Department, among others, to collect
data and review draft documents. Many other local and regional resources were also utilized in the
development of the plan, including the Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, the Cape Cod
Commission and the Board of Trustees of the Brewster Conservation Trust. Please see the
acknowledgements section at the beginning of this document for a complete list of contributors.
The last state-approved OSRP was the 2007 OSRP. In the years since, various contributors have been
regularly updating sections of the constantly evolving OSRP, working towards a formal submittal. For
this 2014 OSRP update, each section was carefully reviewed and revised to provide an up-to-date
inventory and assessment of open space and recreation resources, challenges and opportunities, and a
realistic action plan for the future.
In addition to contributions from local officials, town boards and key stakeholders, public input was
integral to the planning process. Public participation was garnered through a community survey
(available in Appendix B) as well as two public meetings held on May 30, 2013 and June 12, 2013. The
public survey was provided to the community in both hard copy and electronic format via a link on the
Town of Brewster website. The survey was widely distributed to the community. Hard copy versions of
the survey were provided at the following town facilities:
• Town Hall;
• Council on Aging: and
• Brewster Ladies Library.
The hard copy survey was also distributed at Town Meeting on May 6, 2013.
Notices regarding the survey, including a link to complete the electronic survey were provided via:
• Town of Brewster website;
• Town of Brewster cable public television broadcasts; and
• E-mail distribution to all Town departments, Boards and Committees.
• E-mail distribution to all public school students/parents
The survey was available from May 3rd through June 5th 2013 and there were 271 surveys completed and
analyzed. The input gathered from the community survey and public forum informed the community
vision as well as the goals and objectives outlined in the 2014 OSRP.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 7 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
The draft plan was discussed during a public Open Space Committee meeting on May 30, 2013, to review
goals and objectives. The draft plan was then presented at a second public meeting held at Brewster Town
Hall on June 12, 2013. Both of these meetings were also video-taped for broadcast on cable television.
The draft plan was also provided to the Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, Town Planning Board, and
Town Conservation Commission among other departments, committees and boards for letters of review
on June 11, 2013. Written public comments were accepted by the OSC through June 21, 2013. Public
comments were reviewed and integrated into the final draft 2013 OSRP (See Section 10 for public
comments and letters).
The final draft 2013 OSRP was submitted to the Massachusetts Division of Conservation Services (DCS)
for review and feedback on July 3, 2013. The comment letter from DCS is provided in Section 10. This
final 2014 OSRP incorporates revisions to address the DCS’ comments.
C. Enhanced Outreach and Public Participation for Environmental Justice Populations
According to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA),
“Environmental Justice (EJ) 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.”
The Massachusetts Environmental Justice 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 State criteria summarized
above. In addition, according to the US 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 2014 OSRP through the use of both hard copy and electronic surveys, which were posted in a
variety of public places that attract all socioeconomic sectors.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 8 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
SECTION 3. COMMUNITY SETTING
A. Regional Context
Brewster is a Massachusetts town located within what is referred to as “lower Cape Cod” (Figure 3-1).
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 559 miles of coastline, 360
ponds, 145 public water supply wells, eight Areas of Critical Environmental Concern, numerous rare and
endangered species, approximately 116 square miles of protected open space, and 52 separate embayment
watersheds (EEA, 2013). 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.
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.
In an effort to protect and conserve natural resources, Cape Cod’s regional planning agency, the Cape
Cod Commission is in the process of developing a Regional Open Space Plan. The Plan will include a
web-based mapping tool to identify and aid the protection of green infrastructure.By providing a means
to analyze the interrelationships between natural resources (for example, rare species habitat, wetlands,
wellhead protection areas), the Regional Open Space Plan may help identify significant ecological
systems at the landscape scale. The mapping tool and plan are anticipated to help towns and land trusts to
set priorities for open space acquisition that will protect and connect Cape Cod’s most sensitive natural
resources.
Brewster shares many of its resources with neighboring communities (Table 3-1). As such, protection
and maintenance of these resources often requires regional collaboration.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 9 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Table 3-1. Brewster’s Shared 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
Sandwich Moraine Outwash Plain Bourne, Sandwich, Barnstable,
Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Orleans
Monomoy Lens (Zone II Groundwater Protection Districts) Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Chatham
Punkhorn Parklands Harwich
Cape Cod Rail Trail Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Eastham
Wellfleet
Cape Cod Pathways Trail All Cape Cod Towns, Barnstable
County
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 has
been experiencing a slight decrease in socioeconomic conditions when compared to the State and County
for median household income and poverty status; the town currently has a slightly lower median
household income and higher poverty rate than the county (Table 3-2).
Table 3-2. Median Household Income and Poverty Status for Town of Brewster, Barnstable
County, and State of Massachusetts in 2000 and 2010 (sources: US Census 2000; US Census 2006 -
2010 American Community Survey)
State of
Massachusetts
Barnstable County Town of Brewster
2000 2010 2000 2010 2000 2010
Median
Household
Income
$50,502 $64,509 $45,933 $60,317 $49,276 $58,374
Poverty Status
– All Families
6.7% 7.5% 4.6% 5.0% 1.6% 5.5%
As will be discussed in Section C, Brewster and the Cape in general, are experiencing a shift in
demographics, with a decreasing young professional population and increasing senior population. This
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 10 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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 3-2. 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.
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, 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.
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 were 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" 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 1700's, 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 whaling industry. Beach areas were extensively used for the production of salt, a big business
for Brewster in the late 1700's and early 1800's.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 11 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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.
By 1837, the Brewster beaches had 60 salt-making establishments. When salt became more inexpensive
elsewhere, the saltworks were dismantled and the lumber reused in buildings that are still in use today.
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.”
Route 6A and adjoining roads are still lined with the houses of sea captains. In 1850, there were over 55
shipmasters living in Brewster. However, the great days of the clipper ships, manned and captained by
many Brewster men only lasted a short time, between 1850 and 1857, when an economic depression and
then steamship competition put an end to them.
Coastal residents had other means of making a living: “In the mid-1850s shipwrecks occasionally
occurred off the beaches. Many of these so-called shipwrecks were really instances of ships running
aground on the Brewster Flats, since many sea captains were unaware of the areas’ extremely low tides.
Moreover, residents often hung lighted oil lamps from the necks of mules and walked the animals along
the beaches at night, hoping to trick ships into mistaking the mules for lighthouses, thereby causing
wrecks from which residents could scavenge cargo” (Saint, 1996).
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 were now covering the area. The Cape Cod Central Railroad was built in the 1860s and came
to/through Brewster in 1865.
Although Brewster was still a quiet town, the beaches were often active, at least during prohibition.
Residents had kept up their beach “activities” into the 20s; now they scavenged 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.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries there was little development activity in Brewster. A major event
during this time period was the establishment of Nickerson State Park in the 1930's. This acquisition
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 the year-round population
remained very low, at 827 in 1940. In the 1950's the new Route 6 was created, connecting eastern
portions of the Cape to the bridges over the Cape Cod Canal.
In the 1960's, Brewster initiated acquisition and control of sensitive wetlands, marshes and ponds as well
as established Cape Cod Bay access points. Large residential subdivisions were developed. 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 has helped maintain the
quiet, rural atmosphere valued by residents and visitors alike.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 12 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Please see Appendix C for a complete history of the town’s open space accomplishments.
C. Population Characteristics
1. Population Growth
Cape Cod has experienced some of the state’s highest population growth over the last century. Table 3-3
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 decade (2000 – 2010), where Barnstable County had the lowest
population growth among the State’s 14 counties.
Brewster’s growth rate has been variable over the same period, but the town experienced a similar trend
from 2000 – 2010 with a decrease in total population. Table 3-4 shows Brewster's growth rate between
1920 and 2010. 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.
Brewster has experienced a 2.7% population decrease between 2000 and 2010, and the current population
is estimated to be about 9,820 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, high real estate prices and the decrease in developable lots.
Table 3-3. Cape Cod Population Growth Rate, 1920-2010 (sources: Cape Cod Commission; US
Census 2010)
Years Rank Among
All MA
Counties
Growth (%) Population
(in latter year)
Gain 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
2000–20101 14 -2.9 215888 -6,342
1These data are from the US Census 2010.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 13 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Table 3-4. Brewster Population Growth Rate, 1920-2010 (sources: Cape Cod Commission; US
Census 2010)
Years Growth
(%)
Population
(in latter year)
Gain 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 3436
1980-1990 62 8,440 3214
1990-2000 19.6 10,094 1654
2000-20101 -2.71 9,820 -274
1These data are from the US Census 2010.
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 9,820 to
an estimated 35,000 people during the summer season (Brewster, 2005). 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 388 people per
square mile. Seasonally, the population density in Brewster increases from 388 people per square mile to
1,400 people per square mile. 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.
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 don’t return) combined with the increasing retirement
population, has led to this dramatic shift, which is evident in the 2010 US Census. In Brewster, between
2000 and 2010, the population aged 20 to 44 declined by 26%, while people aged 65 and over increased
by 4.2%, and those aged 60 to 64 increased by over 100% (Table 3-5). The median age also increased
between 2000 and 2010 from 46.9 to 53.5, a 14% increase.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 14 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Table 3-5. Brewster Age Profile (source: U.S. Census 2000 and 2010)
Age Group 2000 2010 Percent Change
Total population 10,094 9,820 -2.7%
Under 5 years 353 345 -2.3%
5 to 19 years 1929 1451 -24.8%
5 to 9 years 600 410 -31.7%
10 to 14 years 717 452 -37.0%
15 to 19 years 612 589 -3.8%
20 to 44 years 2436 1803 -26.0%
20 to 24 years 262 359 37.0%
25 to 34 years 707 603 -14.7%
35 to 44 years 1,467 841 -42.7%
45 to 64 years 2,729 3,463 26.9%
45 to 54 years 1,715 1556 -9.3%
55 to 59 years 523 897 71.5%
60 to 64 years 491 1,010 105.7%
65 and over 2,647 2,758 4.2%
65 to 74 years 1,260 1236 -1.9%
75 to 84 years 936 944 0.9%
85 years and over 451 578 28.2%
Median age (years) 46.9 53.5 14%
The number of school-age children in Brewster decreased by about 25%, between 2000 and 2010. This
decrease in school-age children is of critical importance in planning educational services for the town. In
addition, the under-five age group also experienced a 2% decrease, and the 20-44 age group, those of
prime child-bearing years, experienced a 26% decrease between 2000 – 2010. These data support what
has been evident to Brewster residents and reflected in decreasing elementary school enrollment: the town
is losing its young adults and young families. The decrease in the young professional population,
particularly the 15% decrease in those ages 25 – 34 and 43% decrease in those ages 35 – 44, is also
thought to have had large impacts on the local economy, job market, and public transportation
opportunities.
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.
These age trends are something that is being experienced across Cape Cod, and the town will be working
with neighboring communities and the region to help identify ways to address the associated challenges
with the region’s changing demographics.
4. Income and Employment
There has been a national downward trend in median household income and employment over the last
decade as a result of the national recession, housing crisis, and related factors. As can be seen in Table 3-
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 15 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
6, these trends have trickled down to the state, county and town. Unemployment rates have more than
doubled at the state and county level, and have more than tripled in the Town of Brewster over the last
decade, although Brewster’s unemployment rate (5.0%) is still lower than both the state (7.4%) and
county (6.2%) average. Despite recent projections that the national economic conditions are improving,
the high unemployment rates experienced in Brewster and across the country have had important
repercussions in all sectors of the economy and society over the last decade, including those related to
open space and recreation. For example, high unemployment rates lower the economic well-being of the
public and its ability to pay for goods and services, such as recreation fees and tourism-related expenses.
As can be seen in Table 3-6, 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.
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.
As described in Section 2C, the Town of Brewster does not currently encompass EJ populations as
mapped by the State (Figure 3-2).
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 16 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Table 3-6. Income and Employment for Town of Brewster, Barnstable County, and State of
Massachusetts in 2000 and 2010 (sources: US Census 2000; US Census 2006 - 2010 American
Community Survey)
Subject State of Massachusetts Barnstable County Town of Brewster
2000 2010 2000 2010 2000 2010
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%
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 17 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Growth and Development Patterns
5. 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.
In the late 1980’s 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 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.
6. Infrastructure
a) 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 also
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 in order 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 in order 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
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 18 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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.
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, to be marked with trail signs.
Brewster has four 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
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.
b) 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 four public water wells connected to its distribution
system, with a fifth well to be placed into service soon. There are also plans for a sixth well if needed.
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 #6, also located within the Punkhorn Parklands, was drilled
in 2012, and the Brewster Water Department is building the well’s pump house and water treatment
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 19 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
system to adjust the pH of the water. Well #6 is expected to be online and fully operational in 2014.
While well #5 is listed on the Water Management Act permit, it has not yet been drilled, and is not yet in
operation. Initial testing on both wells #5 and 6 indicated that the yield for well #6 would be much higher
than for well #5. The Brewster Water Department moved forward with the well with the highest yield
first.
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 provides
for ample passive recreation areas with miles of trails for walking, hiking, birdwatching, dog walking,
biking and horseback-riding.
c) 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. However, the Tri-Town Sewage
Treatment Facility in Orleans provides a receiving facility for the disposal of septage from Brewster,
Orleans and Eastham. The facility is run by the Board of Managers, made up of representatives of the
towns serviced by the plant. The Board of Managers also manages the septic system inspection and
maintenance program in these communities.
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.
7. Long-term Development Patterns
a) Zoning
The town has implemented specific land use controls to minimize the impacts of future development on
natural resources. Table 3-7 outlines the town’s current zoning districts, and Figure 3-3 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.
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.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 20 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Table 3-7. 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) -
Corridor Overlay Protection District (COPD) -
Personal Wireless Services Communications
(PWSC)
-
Facilities Overlay District (CT) -
Other Bylaws
Cluster Residential Development
Natural Resource Protection Development
Planned Residential Development
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.
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.
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:
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 21 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
• 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.
b) 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 “worst 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.
Table 3-8. Summary of Brewster Buildout Analysis (Source: Town of Brewster Buildout Analysis,
Prepared by Horsley Witten Group, Inc., 2012)
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
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 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 22 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
SECTION 4. ENVIRONMENTAL INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS
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. Figure 4-1a 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.
In contrast to the relatively flat outwash plain areas, the higher land (up to 141 feet above mean sea level)
in the north western 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 Figure 4-1 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 located 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
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 23 Town of Brewster
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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,
homesites, and woodlands, are available for review through the NRCS or through the Conservation
Commission office in Brewster Town Hall. Figure 4-1b depicts Brewster’s soils.
A single soil association, the Carver 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.
A second major soil type, the Plymouth-Barnstable-Nantucket-Barnstable, 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, 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, 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 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.
.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 24 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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. Landscape 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; beaches, the Bay, Route 6A, open space and
ponds (Figure 4-2).
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 History is then on the north side of the street. A short drive south off 6A, taking
Stony Brook 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 comprise 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. Figure 4-3 shows these
watershed boundaries as well as Brewster’s major water resources.
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:
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 25 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
• Loss of eelgrass beds, which are critical habitats for macroinvertebrates and fish;
• 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; and
• 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.
2. 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 fresh water 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 Paines 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 blueback herring, which
migrate from salt to fresh water to spawn, and catadromous fish like eels that spawn in salt water and live
in fresh water.
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 Paines Creek.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 26 Town of Brewster
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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 (Sabatia kennedyana).
a) 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- (3)
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:
1. Long Pond – Boat ramp and beach
2. Slough Pond
3. Upper Mill Pond – Accessible viewing platform and boat ramp
4. Sheep Pond – Accessible viewing platform, boat ramp and beach
5. 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
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.
b) 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). Most recently, Brewster’s ponds have been
monitored regularly by the Cape Cod Pond and Lake Stewardship (PALS) program. The PALS program
monitors ponds and lakes across Cape Cod, including 29 ponds in Brewster.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 27 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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 Pond2 Mercury in fish tissue
Walkers Pond Excess algal growth; Phosphorous (total); Secchi disk transparency;
Turbidity
Baker’s Pond Mercury in fish tissue
2 The town has requested that Sheep Pond be removed from the 303(d) list. A response is pending.
The Cape Cod Commission has mapped the watersheds of 18 of Brewster’s Ponds. Development 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 through 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 at least a mile out into Cape Cod Bay. These extensive flats provide for many hours
of exploration fun.
a) 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). These provide miles of swimming, sunbathing, beach strolling, fishing, and
boating access. Beach sticker revenues contributed $273,725 to the Brewster economy in fiscal year
2012.
• 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 Beach;
• Point of Rocks Landing Beach;
• Ellis Landing Beach;
• Linnell Landing Beach;
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 28 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
• Spruce Hill Beach – Located behind the Historical Society Museum; and
• Crosby Landing Beach -Connects with Nickerson State Park land/ Beach/Namskaket
Creek & Saltmarsh.
b) Marine Surface Water Quality
Water quality at eight of Brewster’s most popular bathing beaches (Breakwater, Crosby Landing, Ellis
Landing, Linnell Landing, Mant’s, Paines 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, particularly in 2012, when all of the monitored beaches passed throughout
the season with the exception of one incident in June.
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.
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
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 29 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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. A 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%1,
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.
Figure 4-4 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. Figure 4-5 shows Brewster’s flood hazard areas.
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.
1 This estimate is based on parcels considered protected by conservation as of October 2012.
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(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 twenty (20) percent of Brewster’s land area (Figure 4-6). 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.
a) 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.
b) 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).
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c) Vernal Pools
The Town of Brewster contains about 20 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 also has a significant number of vegetated wetlands that were converted to cranberry bog
production during the 1920’s to 50’s. 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.
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.
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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.
2. Freshwater Plant Communities
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
(Calamagrostis canadensis), Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), and Purple Gerardia (Agalinis
purpurea). Other species include: New England Boneset (E. leucolepsis var. novae-angliae), and
Maryland Meadow Beauty, both rare in Massachusetts; Thread-leafed Sundew (Drosera filiformis),
common on these ponds, but uncommon elsewhere; and Spatulate-leaved Sundew (D. intermedia).
Plymouth Gentian (Sabatia kennedyana) occurs mixed with Golden-pert (Gratiola aurea), Goldenrod
(Solidago tenuifolia) and Pink Tickseed (Coreopsis rosea). Slender Arrowhead (Sagittaria teres) and
Bladderwort (Utricularia fibrosa or U. biflora) 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. 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
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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 three such significantly sized (by Cape standards)
unfragmented second growth forests designated as protected open space:
• 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 Wing Island
• American Beech Forest Woodland Community west of Paine’s Creek Road
• American Beech Forest Woodland Community east of Run Hill Road. SE 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 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
community 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.
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4. 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.
Figure 4-7 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.
Table 4-3 summarizes the MESA-listed plant species in Brewster.
Table 4-3. Brewster’s MESA-listed Plant Species
Scientific Name Common Name
MESA
Status
Most Recent
Observation
Carex mitchelliana Mitchell's Sedge T 2009
Crocanthemum dumosum Bushy Rockrose SC 2011
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 2002
Liatris scariosa var. novae-angliae New England Blazing Star SC 2011
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 2009
Rhexia mariana Maryland Meadow Beauty E 2011
Rhynchospora scirpoides Long-beaked Bald-sedge SC 1986
Rumex pallidus Seabeach Dock T 1994
Sabatia kennedyana Plymouth Gentian SC 2012
Sagittaria teres Terete Arrowhead SC 2012
Spartina cynosuroides Salt Reedgrass T 2009
Utricularia resupinata Resupinate Bladderwort T 2002
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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.
Both BioMap and Living Waters delineate “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.
Biomap core habitat areas cover approximately 50% of the Town of Brewster, in two main areas. One
large 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. Biomap Supporting Natural
Landscapes cover the transition zones between the Core Habitat areas and the developed areas, and are
concentrated around ponds (Figure 4-4).
5. 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 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
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 36 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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.
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 is currently researching trees appropriate for the area. At this writing, the relocation of
three Hedge Maples from the perimeter of the Brewster Landfill will be 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 is also replanting a traffic island at the corner
of AP Newcomb Road and Stony Brook Road in the western section of Brewster. The DPW recently
completed a large water quality project in this area and tree plantings are planned for 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 lightening 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 last year and the DPW plans to install 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.
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• Stony Brook Road.
• Satucket Road.
• Lower Road.
• Paines Creek Road.
• Brier Lane.
• Slough Road.
• Tubman Road.
• Robbins Hill Road.
• Red Top Road, from Stony Brook Road to Satucket 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.
• 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.
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.
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.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 38 Town of Brewster
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1. Inventory
a) Tidelands and Coastal Waters
Brewster has the following native species occurring in its tidelands and coastal waters:
Marine mammals
• Right, Sperm, Pilot and Fin Back whales, Pilot Whale, White-Sided Dolphin, Harbor Porpoise,
Harbor and Gray Seals, Hooded Seal.
Reptiles
• Loggerhead, Leatherback, Green and Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtles, Diamond Back Terrapin.
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. 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
Echinoderms
• Northern Sand Dollar, New England Sea Cucumber, Purple and Green Sea Urchins, Northern Sea
Star and Common Starfish
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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,
Oldsquaw, 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.
• 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.
b) 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 (newly arrived), 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 endangered –Vernal Pool
species, and Spring Peepers.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 40 Town of Brewster
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• Salamanders include the Spotted (endangered) Vernal Pool species, 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, (the recently re-established) Wild Turkey, Mourning Doves, Rock Dove,
Yellow and Black-billed Cuckoos, Whip-poor-will, Chuck-will's Widow, Common Nighthawk,
and Chimney Swift.
• 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, Greater 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.
• Other Cape residents and visitors are the Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Northern Cardinal, Snow
Bunting, Indigo Bunting and Rufous-sided Towhee. 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.
• Cape Cod Finches include the House/English Sparrow, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, Purple
Finch, House Finch, Evening Grosbeak.
• 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
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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 approximately 20 certified vernal pools in Brewster (Figure 4-6).
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).
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 15 MESA-listed wildlife species (four birds,
seven insects, one fish, one mammal and two reptiles (Table 4-4).
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Table 4-4. Brewster’s MESA-Listed Wildlife Species
Taxonomic Group Scientific Name Common Name
MESA
Status
Federal
Status
Most Recent
Observation
Bird
Charadrius
melodus Piping Plover T T 2011
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 1994
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
Dragonfly/Damselfly
Rhionaeschna
mutata Spatterdock Darner SC 1987
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 2010
E. Scenic Resources and Unique Environments
1. Scenic Heritage Landscapes
Scenic heritage landscapes are those special places and spaces that help define the character of a
community and reflect its past. They are the result of human interaction with the natural resources of an
area, which influence the use and development of land. These geographic areas contain both natural and
cultural resources. Heritage landscapes in Brewster come in many forms, including:
• Cemeteries;
• Commons/Village Centers;
• Mill sites;
• Parks;
• Buildings/Estates;
• Farms/Cranberry bogs;
• Camps; and
• Scenic roads.
The history of the Town of Brewster can be traced in its tree-lined cemeteries. Visiting these quiet sites
enriches one's sense of the past, while introducing one to some of the most beautiful spots in town. There
are six (6) large cemeteries and a number of smaller, older family plots in town.
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• 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)
• Family cemeteries in Nickerson State Park
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.
Stony Brook Grist Mill and its associated Mill Ponds are also important to the town’s scenic and historic
heritage. 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 Millsites Committee oversees the
preservation of Brewster's historic Grist Mill, and the town-owned land and scenic footpaths along Stony
Brook.
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, 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.
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
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.
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 also provide local
healthy food for residents. There are also farms that provide recreational opportunities, such as horseback
riding.
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.
Historic Route 6A began as a Native American trail and evolved into a principal east-west cart path for
early Cape farmers and other settlers. In the late 17th century it became an extension of the Plymouth
Colony’s “King’s Highway.” The historic route extends across Cape Cod, and is considered Brewster’s
Main Street as it traverses the town. As one leaves East Dennis, heading into Brewster, it is difficult not
to be fully distracted by the occasional vista that opens to the expanse of Cape Cod Bay and the
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 44 Town of Brewster
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marshlands that lie between it and the roadway. The fluid flight of gulls, the rise and ebb of the tides, the
distant ships and ocean breezes all address the senses of the traveler.
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).
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 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. In 2013, $2,200 was distributed to students and another
$1,200 was deposited in the reserve fund.
• Society of Cape Cod Craftsmen, now in its 55th year, holds its Annual Craft Fair at the Drummer
Boy Park.
• The Brewster Historical Society, which has been in existence for almost 50 years, holds its
Annual Antiques Fair at the Drummer Boy Park.
• The 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.
2. Cultural and Historic Areas
Cultural resources are an integral part of Cape Cod's past, and Brewster’s cultural and historic areas
characterize the town. Brewster maintains historic Native American burial grounds as well as a historic
“Old Indian Well” adjacent to Quivett Creek. Historic homes are an important part of Brewster’s heritage
as well. In addition, some of the town’s municipal buildings are historic as well.
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.
Archaeological sites in Brewster include:
• Nickerson State Park - Former house sites that are now represented by cellar holes, foundations,
bottle dumps;
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• Nickerson State Park - Site Southern edge Flax Pond;
• Wing Island;
• Old Indian Well –adjacent to Quivett Creek; and
• Site between Upper and Lower Mill Ponds.
Figure 4-2 shows Brewster’s unique features, which include some of its most scenic and historic resource
areas.
3. Unique Environments
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 (Figure 4-8).
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.
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,
including:
• Wastewater Management;
• Stormwater Management;
• Coastal Erosion and Flooding;
• Biodiversity and Habitat Fragmentation;
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• Climate Change;
• Hazardous Waste;
• Solid Waste Disposal;
• Forestry Management; and
• Environmental Equity.
1. Wastewater Management
Pollutants in wastewater impact groundwater quality and can contribute to the degradation of fresh water
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 fresh
water 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.
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
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.
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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 fresh water ponds and coastal waters.
3. 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.
4. 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 cross roads to reach food sources, many getting hit by cars in the
process. Other species thrive in fragmented/disrupted habitats, such as Grey 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.
5. 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
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 48 Town of Brewster
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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 migratory fishes (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 has started to account
for this by mapping areas impacted by sea level rise in its Integrated Water Resource Management Plan.
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.
6. 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.
7. 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 is exploring ways to reduce the amount of solid waste that is ultimately landfilled through recycling
and composting initiatives. On October 1, 2013 Brewster is beginning a unit-based fee system (pay-as-you-
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throw) for handling the disposal of non-recyclable waste. Only designated yellow disposal bags will be
accepted for trash at the transfer station. These will be available at local retailers. Such a unit-based system
should encourage more recycling by Brewster residents. It also places the costs of disposal more equitably on
those who create the waste.
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 $45 for a sticker, whether they are just dropping off recycling or dropping off regular trash.
8. 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
warranting 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.
1. 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.
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.
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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.
2. 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.
3. Mother’s Bog/Slough Road Woodlands comprise 80 acres off of 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
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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.
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 re-
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.
4. Wing’s Island is north of Route 6A, on Paines 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
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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.
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.
5. 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
contain a 10.70-acre Cedar Swamp. No forestry management plan has been established for this
conservation area.
6. 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.
9. 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. 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; and
• 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 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 - Mother’s Bog Conservation Area, Drummer Boy Park & Recreation area
• South West Brewster - Punkhorn Parklands
• Central Brewster – Sheep Pond Woodlands, Elementary School & Town Hall recreation fields
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• North East Brewster – Bakers Pond Conservation Area
• East Brewster – Nickerson State Park
• South East Brewster - Reed Kingsbury Conservation Area & Freeman’s Way Recreations fields
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SECTION 5. INVENTORY OF LANDS OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION
INTEREST
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
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, landings and parks, 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 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.
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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 environmental
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
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. Therefore, in most communities the
development of new housing, assuming it is of average assessed value, will result in a significant net loss
of revenue each year –one that will need to be offset, most likely by higher taxes.
4. Brewster’s Open Space Inventory
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.
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Table 5-1. Significant Privately Owned Parcels
Address Acres Zoning Condition
Recreation
Potential
Public
Access Protection
Commercial Greenhouses (4.08 acres)
Long Pond Road 4.08 RM Good No
Patrons
only No
Golf Courses (195 acres)
South Orleans Road 66.16 RM Good Yes Yes - fee No
Villages Drive 128.9 RL Good Yes Yes - fee No
Tennis Courts (0.94 acres)
Center Street 0.94 RM Good Yes No No
Riding Stables (24.09 acres)
Commercial Street 3.01 CH Good Yes No No
Freemans Way 15.78 RR Good Yes No No
Run Hill Road 5.3 RR Good Yes Yes-fee No
Youth Camps (124.96 acres)
Main Street 54.92 RM Good Yes
Private -
fee No
Long Pond Road 70.04 RM Good Yes
Private -
fee No
Mini-Golf (0.77 acres)
Underpass Road 0.77 CH Good Yes Yes - fee No
Chapter 61 Forest Land (9.59 acres)
South Orleans Road Rear 9.59 RR Good No No Partial - Temporary
Chapter 61A Farm Land (61.52 acres)
Eldridge Road 14.95 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Hamilton Cartway 7.25 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Main Street 7.62 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Long Pond Road 3.30 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Long Pond Road 3.96 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Long Pond Road 1.25 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Cape Lane 0.67 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Lund Farm Way 22.53 Good No No Partial - Temporary
Chapter 61B Recreational Land (93.78 acres)
Main Street 9.56 RM Good Yes Yes - fee No
WH Besse Cartway 6.53 RM Good Yes Yes - fee No
Harwich Road 54.95 RM Good Yes Yes - fee No
Tubman Road 22.74 RM Good Yes Yes - fee No
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 57 Town of Brewster
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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.
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 10 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. Recreation Lands
There are almost 100 acres of recreational land classified under Chapter 61B in Brewster. Much of this
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.
4. 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. Figure 4-4 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.
5. 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. 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. Figure 4-
7 shows where these habitat areas exist in Brewster.
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6. Conservation Restrictions and other Less than Fee 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 (BCT),
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 BCT 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.
7. Other Resources
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
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.
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., and adjacent town governments
and non-profits in establishing thousands of acres of land dedicated to conservation in their natural state.
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A matrix of municipally owned conservation and recreation facilities and programs is provided in
Appendix D. These facilities are also mapped in Figure 5-1.
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. 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. Properties owned and managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission are summarized
in Appendix D and depicted visually in Figure 5-1. 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 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.
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 Figure 5-1. The Recreation Department also
provides recreation services and programs on a number of other properties, including but not limited to:
• Breakwater Beach;
• The Brewster Community Ice Rink;
• Drummer Boy Park;
• Eddy Elementary School;
• Nauset Regional High School (in North Eastham);
• Nickerson State Park; and
• Town Hall Fields.
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, Ballroom Dance, Senior Striders, Senior Tennis, Adult Cardio Tennis, Zumba,
Toddler Games, Tee Ball, Youth Tennis, Farm League Baseball, Basketball Clinics, Ceramics, Baseball
Clinics, Fishing, Karate, Kite Building, Lacrosse, Softball, Soccer, Track & Field, Shell Fishing, Kids
Fitness, Gymnastics, Dance, Stroller Fitness
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Summer: Adult Tennis, Adult Fitness Boot Camp, Senior Tennis, Adult Soccer, Stand Up Paddle-
boarding (Youth & Adult), Yoga, Soccer, Swimming, Youth Tennis, Basketball, Archery, Baseball, Golf,
Kayak Rentals, Science programs, Playground Program, Sailing (Youth and adult), Skippers, Soccer,
Surfing, Baseball, American Girl Club, Fairy Tale Theatre,
Fall: Senior Tennis, Adult Tennis, Toddler Art, Soccer, Youth Tennis, Baseball, Skippers, Flag Football,
Gymnastics, karate, Field Hockey, Golf, Science programs, Scrapbooking, Soccer, Tennis Baseball, Boot
Camp fitness
Winter: Fitness Boot Camp, Indoor Adult Soccer, Mens Basketball, Senior Striders, Yogalates,
Babysitting Training, Dodgeball, Fashion Design, Floor Hockey, Basketball, Jewelry Making, Lego Club,
Science Programs, Sand Sculpting, Sign Language, Softball, Zumbatomic, Lacrosse, Archery.
Community Events: Breakfast with Santa, Brewster Polar Plunge, Holiday Gift Wrapping, Ice Rink,
Brewster in Bloom Events: Bloom Run, Kid Fest with Kite Education, Easter Egg Hunt, Summer Kick
Off Party, Movie Night by the Bay, Halloween Events at Ocean Edge Resort, Parents’ Night Out.
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; and
• Public athletic fields and other recreation facilities.
a) Cemeteries
Brewster has five cemeteries: Pine Grove, Brewster Memorial, Sears, First Parish/Breakwater and
Lincoln/Foster. Plots are sold through the Department of Public Works for Brewster Memorial Cemetery.
The Brewster Cemetery Commission is currently actively involved with restoration work in First
Parish/Breakwater, Sears, and Lincoln/Foster. There are no more plots being sold in Pine Grove and
returned plots will be used as open space and not placed on the market (Town of Brewster, 2013a).
b) 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. Based on what was reported in the 2007
Open Space and Recreation Plan, this is a three-fold increase in the amount of land owned and managed
by the Brewster Water Department for the purposed of water quality protection.
c) 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
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computer classes and gardening sessions. The Council on Aging staff help link Brewster’s seniors to
services and give support (Town of Brewster, 2013b).
d) 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 one hundred (100) feet wide and are maintained by the Brewster Department
of Public Works under the direction of the Town Manager, Board of Selectmen, 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);
• Saints Landing (Robbins Hill Road);
• Mant’s Landing (Robbins Hill Road);
• Paines Creek Beach (Paines Creek Road);
• Breakwater Beach (Breakwater Road); and
• Wing Island Beach (Behind the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, off Main Street).
Brewster's shoreline is a six (6) mile stretch of sandy/pebble beach. 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
e) 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.
f) 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
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both residents and visitors. The Alewife Committee oversees the Herring Run, with the assistance of the
Natural Resources Department.
g) 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.
h) Public Athletic Fields and Other Recreation Facilities
i) 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
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. The Eddy and Stony Brook schools provide
large field areas for public use during non-school hours. There are fields behind the Council on
Aging/Fire Department and in front of Town Hall. There are also three large playing fields off of
Freeman's Way: two (2) baseball fields and a soccer field, which opened in 1993. 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
donations, easements, licenses and purchases. Its implementation requires the use of access easements
over some privately owned parcels.
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 is well on its way to completing a contiguous trans-
town path as part of the regional Pathways system. The town's existing Cape Cod Pathways Committee
has been working consistently over the last decade to implement the Brewster Pathways Plan. Any
privately owned parcels that are necessary to cross as part of the Cape Cod Pathways Plan should be
considered a high land protection priority for their recreational 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, or boating. There is a stocked year round pond for
freshwater fishing.
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.
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.
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
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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 is able to offer 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 Charitable Trust on this property.
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 planning, including
Pathways planning, land management and land protection work. The Compact provides technical
expertise to the town and the Brewster Conservation Trust and also shares a staff person with the BCT.
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;
• Girl Scouts;
• Cape Cod Fish and Game;
• Brewster Sportsman's Club;
• Cape Cod Sea Camps; and
• Camp Monomoy (State).
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 CCMNH
owns a total of 73.24 acres.
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SECTION 6. COMMUNITY VISION
A. Description of Process
Over the last several decades, the Town of Brewster has conducted a number of public surveys, visioning
sessions, stakeholder meetings and public workshops to identify the town’s overall vision and goals
related to open space and recreation.
Based on stakeholder and public engagement leading up to the 2007 OSRP, the fundamental goals
identified at that time included:
• Assurance that there is adequate supply of safe drinking water to meet all of the needs of
residents of Brewster in the year 2020;
• Maintenance of the rural character and identity of Brewster;
• Ensure habitat diversity through protection of wetlands as well as critical uplands;
• Ensure preservation of a variety of rural recreational activities and high-quality natural
environments in close proximity to all residential areas; and
• A future, with Brewster, fully developed, its appearance that of a small coastal community in
harmony with its natural setting and in balance with the natural carrying capacity of the land.
Since the 2007 OSRP, town staff and stakeholders have been working to achieve these goals. See Section
2A for specific examples of how the town has been addressing these goals.
For this 2014 OSRP, the town looked back at the 2007 OSRP vision and goals and conducted a
comprehensive stakeholder and community outreach campaign to reflect on the 2007 vision and goals and
identify if and how they may have shifted over the last six years. This campaign included a community
survey, public forums and key stakeholder outreach. See Section 2.B for further discussion of the
planning and public participation process.
B. Community Survey Results
A community survey was distributed from May 3rd, 2013 through June 5th, 2013 in both hardcopy and
electronic format. There were 271 surveys completed and analyzed. A number of steps were taken to
encourage broad participation in the survey, including: dissemination during Town Meeting;
advertisements on the Town Website and community television with a link to the survey on the
homepage; e-mail distribution to Stony Brook and Eddy School students and their families, ; and
providing hard copies of the survey at major public facilities.
Of the 271 responses to the survey, 84% of respondents identified themselves as being year-round
residents of Brewster. Overall, 90% of the respondents felt it was important or very important for
Brewster to continue to acquire and preserve open space and natural areas in town. Over 95% of
respondents thought it was important to protect land areas for protection of groundwater, drinking water
and watersheds. Other areas that respondents felt were important to protect included: habitat areas, such
as salt marshes, beaches, ponds and wetlands, including endangered species habitat; areas around ponds
and lakes; and beach land and access points for recreational needs (Figure 6-1).
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Figure 6-1. Survey responses to how important it is to preserve different types of land in Brewster
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Agricultural land and farmland
Habitat areas, such as salt marshes, beaches,
etc., including endangered species habitat
Lands to protect groundwater, drinking water,
watersheds
Areas around ponds and lakes
Aesthetics/scenic views and vistas
Beach land and access points for rec needs
Tracts of land linking open space parcels
Buildings/places of historical value and
architectural interest
Open spaces to meet active recreational needs
Open spaces to meet passive recreational needs
Important
Neutral
Not Important
1. Town Actions for Protection of Conservation Land
Survey respondents were asked which town actions they favored to preserve and protect open space. Five
options were provided:
1. Cooperative land conservation efforts between public and private entities;
2. Town purchase of land, even if it means additional taxes;
3. Mandatory dedication of open space by developers;
4. Conservation Restrictions/Easements – purchased/acquired; and
5. Zoning that encourages Open Space Conservation.
Of these options, “cooperative land conservation efforts between public and private entities” was the most
popular (86%) and “zoning that encourages Open Space Conservation” was the second-most popular
(73%). Some respondents suggested town actions that were not on the list, including prioritizing the
preservation of current town-owned lands and using all land use controls possible.
2. Town Actions for Maintenance of Recreational Facilities
Survey respondents were also asked which town actions they favored to operate and maintain recreational
facilities; options included:
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1. Fees paid by both residents and non-residents for the use of recreational facilities - fees would be
used for facility maintenance and acquisition;
2. Fees paid by non-residents only for the use of recreational facilities - fees would be used for
facility maintenance and acquisition;
3. An ‘Adopt-a-Facility’/’Friends-of-a-Facility’ program that allows private individuals or groups to
take responsibility for a facility’s maintenance and/or funding;
4. Expand parking areas at recreation facilities; and
5. Provide better public transportation to/from facilities.
Fees paid by both residents and non-residents as well as an ‘Adopt-a-Facility’/’Friends-of-a-Facility’
program were the most popular, selected by 56% and 52% of respondents respectively. The survey also
asked for other approaches the town could take that were not listed. Some respondents expressed
concerns about raising local taxes in general. It was suggested that existing taxes be used for recreation
facility maintenance to the greatest extent possible. Another respondent proposed pursuing endowments
or other private funding sources for maintenance as well as property acquisition.
3. Needs
To understand the community’s needs, respondents were provided a list of 22 different types of open
space and recreation resources and facilities to gauge their importance for future planning in Brewster.
Figure 6-2 summarizes those responses. Respondents were asked to indicate if the resources was
important, not important or neutral/no opinion. Resources ranged from athletic fields and playgrounds, to
bike and hiking trails, to hunting areas and skate parks. Respondents were also given an opportunity to
list their own resources that might not have been listed. Beach parking and amenities, walking/hiking
trails and parks were identified by most respondents as important for future planning, in that order.
Resources that were clearly seen by respondents as not important were swimming pools, motorcross/ATV
specific areas and hunting areas. Those resources that respondents viewed as most important are
discussed in more detail below.
a) Public Beach Access
Beach parking and amenities were another important future planning resource. Although most
respondents (59%) indicated that they were very easy or easy to find and use, public beach access by
residents during the summer was highlighted as a significant issue throughout the survey. Beach parking
and amenities were given a high level of importance in planning for future open space and recreation,
among 22 different opportunities. In general, beach parking and handicapped accessibility were stressed
as concerns. More than half of respondents indicated that beach parking and amenities were below
average or poor. One respondent commented that the time during which non-residents can park at the
beach in the summer is too early, and therefore the parking lots fill up too quickly. Another respondent
suggested that enforcement of parking violations at beaches is a major problem, and should be a priority
in the summer.
b) Forested Lands Access
Walking and hiking trails were identified as important resources for future planning. About 30% of
survey respondents expressed that it was not easy to find and use forested lands. Survey respondents
expressed that trailheads were hard to find, and that many trails were unmarked. Comments suggested
incorporating trail signage that is compatible with the natural areas, such as wooden signs with few
pictures.
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c) Off-Leash Dog Park
While dog and pet walking areas did not receive a majority of the opinions of respondents as a future
planning need (47%), many respondents commented on the need for an off-leash dog park in Brewster in
the open comment sections of the survey. Several noted that dogs should be allowed off-leash at
Drummer Boy Park, while others suggested that the town should look at alternative sites. There were also
comments against allowing dogs at Drummer Boy Park. For example, a few respondents suggested their
favorite conservation/recreation area was Drummer Boy Park without dogs. User fees were suggested to
support maintenance of an off-leash dog park by one respondent. Another respondent suggested that dog
owners would be willing to contribute to and help maintain an off-leash dog park.
Figure 6-2. Summary of Respondent Resource/Facility Importance for Future Planning Needs
0 50 100 150 200 250
Athletic fields (e.g., soccer, football, baseball)
Tennis courts
Parks
Golf courses and driving ranges
Playgrounds
Bike trails
Mountain bike trails
Public boating and fishing
Skateboarding
Outdoor track
Basketball courts
Swimming pool
Amphitheater
Night‐lighted facilities
Motocross/ATV specific areas
Community gardens
Hunting areas
Horseback riding areas
Walking/hiking trails
Bird watching/nature enjoyment
Beach parking and amenities
Dog/pet walking areas
Important
Neutral
Not Important
d) Youth Recreation Opportunities
There were several comments in the open comment sections of the survey about the need to provide
recreation opportunities for youth, particularly teenagers. A skate park was suggested by one respondent
while another suggested athletic fields for sports such as lacrosse, soccer and football.
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4. Favorite Conservation and Recreation Areas
As can be seen by the “word clouds” in Figure 6-3, there were several public areas that were highlighted
both for their conservation and recreation values, namely Drummer Boy Park, the Punkhorn Parklands
and Nickerson State Park. Other conservation areas that were highlighted by respondents included Wings
Island, Paines Creek, and the Sheep’s Pond area. The Rail Trail, Captains Golf Course, beaches, and
biking/hiking trails were popular recreation facilities.
Figure 6-3. Word clouds of survey respondents’ favorite conservation areas (left) and favorite
recreation areas (right)
5. Accessing Information about Conservation/Recreation Opportunities
About half of the survey respondents somewhat believe they are getting sufficient information about the
Town’s open space and recreation opportunities, with the other half split were between feeling that they
are getting sufficient information or not feeling that they are getting sufficient information. In addition,
just under half of the respondents were somewhat familiar with the Cape Cod Pathways trail system.
About a quarter was familiar and the remaining quarter was not familiar with the trail system.
Modes for receiving information were also surveyed. The most popular ways in which respondents
receive news and information concerning open space and recreation resources (in this order) included:
newspaper, town’s website, word of mouth and Natural Resources Department informational pamphlets
and signs. Internet options other than the town’s website including Facebook and Twitter were highly
unpopular. Radio was also unpopular by a majority of respondents. Some respondents commented that
the local cable news channel and the Brewster Conservation Trust website/newsletter (both of which were
not listed as options in the survey) were how they received news/information concerning open space and
recreation resources. Additional sources included websites other than the town’s, local social clubs or
organizations and town meetings.
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C. Statement of Open Space and Recreation Goals
Based on the survey responses, the contributions of local officials and facilities managers, and the
consideration of approved local plans and programs, the following broad goals are established to guide
the Brewster 2014 OSRP:
1. Protect and maintain a maximum amount of open space for the purpose of ensuring protection of
a sufficient safe drinking water supply to meet the needs of Brewster’s 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;
3. Plan, coordinate and implement open space protection measures that preserve habitat diversity
and protect marine and fresh surface water resources;
4. Provide a variety of recreation opportunities, which accommodate the current and future needs of
the community, and that are in close proximity to all residential areas; and
5. Promote greater coordination and communication about community open space and recreation
needs among local stakeholders and residents as well as with surrounding communities and the
region.
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SECTION 7. ANALYSIS OF NEEDS
A. Summary of Resource Protection Needs
1. Protection of Public Water Supply
Continued land acquisition within drinking water protection areas is needed to optimize protection of
Brewster’s sole source aquifer. Over 95% of respondents to the 2014 OSRP Update community survey
stated that it was important to protect land areas for protection of groundwater, drinking water and
watersheds. To protect these areas, survey respondents favored cooperative land conservation efforts
between public and private entities as well as zoning that encourages open space conservation.
The town needs to continue to prioritize lands within contributing areas to drinking water wells for
acquisition and protection. The town also needs to continue to look at ways to strengthen its zoning and
regulations to limit development and increase open space within these areas.
2. Protection of Marine and Fresh Surface Waterbodies
Brewster’s marine and fresh surface waterbodies are valuable ecological, recreational, and economical
assets to the community. These marine and fresh surface waterbodies not only provide critical habitat for
wildlife and vegetative communities, but also offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. These areas,
particularly the beaches, also draw a large number of visitors to Brewster each year, making them
important for tourism and local economic development. Attendees at the Open Space and Recreation
Plan Update – Goals and Objectives discussion on May 30, 2013, defined Brewster as a “small coastal
community.” The group agreed that Brewster’s identity is tied to its coastal attributes.
Although access to Brewster’s waterbodies is important for passive and active recreation, heavy use of the
waterbodies and their shorelines, coupled with dense development in their watersheds, can result in
unintended degradation of water quality and habitat. The town’s local zoning and regulatory framework
as well as strategies for open space acquisition and management should continue to protect the town’s
marine and fresh surface waters.
Brewster’s commitment to protection of marine and fresh surface water bodies through a holistic
watershed approach has been and will continue to be integral to its success in protection of these
resources. The Brewster Integrated Water Resources Management Plan serves as the town’s
comprehensive guide to local water resource protection. Phase II of the Integrated Water Resources
Management Plan contains a number of recommendations for protecting marine and fresh surface waters,
including: nitrogen management recommendations for marine surface waters, primarily within the
Pleasant Bay watershed; town-wide stormwater management recommendations; and short-term
management strategies to reduce phosphorus loadings to Brewster’s fresh water ponds.
It will be important for the town to implement these in order to ensure protection of its valuable surface
water resources. Many of these recommendations are being implemented currently under Phase III of the
project.
3. Habitat Protection
The continued health and biodiversity of marine and fresh water systems as well as upland systems
depends on the maintenance of high-quality habitat. The same areas that often attract human
development also provide essential food, cover, migratory corridors, breeding/nursery areas for a broad
array of marine, freshwater and upland organisms (EPA, 2012). As discussed in Section 4, Brewster
maintains a number of unique ecological habitats that contain a variety of wildlife and vegetative
communities, including many endangered species.
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It is important for the town to consider habitat protection in its open space and recreation planning.
Habitat fragmentation threatens the persistence of many species, so maintaining open space corridors and
larger tracts of open space is important to protect these ecological communities. In addition, it is
important to provide passive outdoor recreation opportunities (e.g., trails) that are harmonious with the
ecological functions of the area. Seventy-eight percent of survey respondents for the 2014 OSRP Update
community survey thought that trails were important to consider when planning for future recreation
opportunities in the town. Outdoor recreation opportunities, such as trails, can also encourage stewardship
of natural areas and promote their protection, but these recreation opportunities must be provided
carefully so that they do not damage the natural communities.
4. Protection of Agriculture
Over half of the survey respondents for the 2014 OSRP Update community survey thought that it was
important to preserve agricultural land or farmland. The town has a number of active farms, such as
Halcyon Farm, CBI Farm, Surrey Farms and Eldredge Farm & Nursery (partly in Harwich). The
Brewster Agricultural Commission was established in 2005 by Brewster town meeting voters in an effort
to preserve local farming and agriculture in Brewster.
The Commission would like to take a Right to Farm bylaw to Town Meeting. This would essentially be a
statement by the Town that they support the State Right To Farm Bylaw, which promotes agriculture-
based economic opportunities, and protect farmlands within the town by allowing agricultural uses and
related activities to function with minimal conflict with abutters. Protection of 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. The Town of Brewster should
take advantage of the regional momentum to expand local agriculture to protect and promote agricultural
activities in the town.
5. Cultural and Historical Resources Protection
Brewster’s historical and cultural resources enhance and enrich the quality of life in the town. Its historical
landscapes contribute to the enjoyment, appreciation and understanding of Brewster and Massachusetts
history by both residents and visitors. Brewster has a superb number of old Sea Captains houses, most of
them on Route 6A in the Old King’s Highway Historic District. The Town also has the historic Stony Brook
Herring Run.
These sites help define what is unique about Brewster. These sites enhance the scenic qualities of Brewster’s
landscape and help define the community’s character. These resources give a sense of time and of connection
to the past and present experience to a place. These collections of interrelated historical places and spaces are
an integral part of where Brewster residents live work and play. Preservation of Brewster’s historical and
cultural history is critical to the look and feel of the town which is so important.
Heritage tourism and outdoor recreation at historic resources are not only recreation amenities, but economic
assets, which help sustain the local and regional economies. Heritage tourism links the preservation of
historic properties and sites to both recreational and economic benefits. Maintenance and restoration of these
buildings and sites has generally been left to the private owners of these sites, with no available funding
support for preservation/restoration. Since the 2005 approval of the Community Preservation Act (CPA) at
Town Meeting, Brewster has had funds specifically earmarked for historic preservation. The DCR Heritage
Stewardship Program has also worked closely with the town and volunteer groups to preserve the historic
Crosby Mansion and the Cape Repertory Theatre complex.
The presence of the CPA funds allows for flexibility in funding and working with both private and public
partners to fund preservation projects. The Cape Cod Commission also works to promote regional historic
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 72 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
preservation through a variety of planning and funding partnerships. The Commission has provided a
Cultural Resource Inventory for the town. As the CPA Committee works to review applications for funding
for Historic Preservation, Open Space Preservation, Community Housing and Recreation, , it is very clear
that education is critical to the process. Understanding the significance of any resource, historical, cultural, or
open space allows residents and visitors to better appreciate its value and the need to support its preservation.
It is important for the community to continue to bring project applications to the CPA for review.
B. Summary of Community’s Needs
Massachusetts Outdoors 2006, the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), is a
comprehensive plan for Massachusetts outdoor recreation. The SCORP provides an assessment of the
supply and demand of open space and recreation facilities for the state and for its sub-regions, including
the Cape and Islands. The SCORP found that the amount per capita of land dedicated to open space and
recreation, at 0.45 acres, significantly exceeds the 0.176 acres per capita for the state. The SCORP also
shows “higher general frequency of use of all types of recreation areas by residents of the Cape and
Islands. The five most often cited facilities desired by Cape and Island residents are: more swimming
(17.5%) (perhaps implying the need for better access to the beaches and parking, or for less crowded
beaches), road biking (15.5%), walking (9.0%), playground (8.7%), and tennis (7.3%) facilities.” The
SCORP also found a high regional use of wetlands and conservation areas, not surprising given the
abundance of those resources in the region, as well as use of biking facilities. The SCORP findings are
consistent with many of the findings of the Brewster community survey, which are described below and
in Section 6.B.
1. Public Beach Access
Public beaches are often what attract most residents and visitors to the Town of Brewster. However, one
of the greatest challenges cited by respondents to the 2014 OSRP Update community survey was access
to public beaches. In general, beach parking was a major obstacle, with more than half of respondents
stating that beach parking and amenities were below average or poor. Handicapped accessibility was also
highlighted as a concern related to public beach access.
Access to public beaches, especially for residents in the summer time, 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.
2. Forested Lands Access
Brewster’s commitment to the protection of open space has afforded it a valuable supply of large tracts of
forested lands, which provide critical habitat for wildlife and vegetative communities as well as
opportunities for outdoor recreation. Access to these forested lands for outdoor recreation was named as
an important need in the 2014 OSRP Update community survey, with about 1/3 of respondents noting that
it was not easy to find and use forested lands. Survey respondents expressed that trailheads were hard to
find, and that many trails were unmarked.
Trail accessibility by the disabled population is also an important need in Brewster. Many communities,
including a few on Cape Cod, have started to incorporate accessibility features into their trail networks.
For example, both Dennis and Eastham offer “Braille Trails,” which offer the visually challenged a way
to explore these resources.
The town needs to provide education and outreach to residents and visitors about where its trail networks
may be accessed. This should include signage as well as brochures and guides. In addition, trails need to
be better marked so that people can navigate the trails better. Trails provide an opportunity for people to
experience and appreciate natural resources and become stewards of the land. Stewardship of these
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 73 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
natural areas by the public then fosters further protection, which will help support the town’s future
efforts to protect forested lands.
3. Safe Bicycle Routes
Brewster has been making significant progress over the last several years with regard to improving the
town’s bicycle environment, or bikeability. The formation and dedication of the Brewster Bikeways
Committee has been integral to the success of Brewster’s bikeability improvements. The town has
improved signage for bicyclists, and included signage for motorists to “share the road.” The Bikeways
Committee has also developed maps and brochures and created a Bike Brewster Facebook Page to
provide education about biking in Brewster.
The town needs to continue these efforts to further improve the biking environment in Brewster. About
65% of survey respondents to the 2014 OSRP Update community survey suggested that bike trails were
important to consider in future open space and recreation planning. In addition, many respondents noted
that safe on-road bicycle routes were needed for commuter and recreation needs.
4. A Variety of Recreation Opportunities for All User Groups
Different user groups have different needs related to recreation resources. Age, culture, ability, and other
population characteristics should be considered when planning for recreation. The provision of more
recreation opportunities for youth was highlighted as a need in the 2014 OSRP Update community
survey. About half of the survey respondents suggested that it was important to plan for future athletic
fields and playgrounds in Brewster. There were also several comments in the open comment sections of
the survey about the need to provide recreation opportunities, such as skate parks and athletic fields, for
youth, particularly teenagers. Planning for the recreation needs of the senior population is also important
in Brewster, given the dramatic increase in Brewster’s aging population.
Another user group need that has been highlighted is the need for an off-leash dog park in the Town of
Brewster. Many respondents to the 2014 OSRP Update community survey expressed the need for an off-
leash dog park. Some of these survey respondents specified that Drummer Boy Park should be used as an
off-leash dog park. Other respondents, however, stated that dogs should not be allowed at Drummer Boy
Park.
It will be important for the town to balance the needs of different user groups to provide a variety of
recreation opportunities. Some 2014 OSRP Update community survey respondents suggested providing
more multi-use recreation areas, where the needs of different user groups can all be met within the same
area. It is critical that accessibility of Brewster’s recreation resources be improved for the disabled
population.
C. Summary of Management Needs
To accommodate public needs, recreation sites, trails, facilities, beaches, playgrounds, historic and
cultural sites must be well maintained and appropriately staffed on a regular, continuous basis. Failure to
do so, even for short-term reasons, can have long-term implications, decrease public safety and support,
and adversely impact public recreation experiences. Maintenance/preservation of these resources is
critical, but expensive and requires creative ways to ensure proper maintenance levels, such as adopt-a-
trail, adopt-a-park, , and public/private partnerships.
Brewster’s Natural Resources Department is currently staffed by a Director and Assistant Shellfish and
Natural Resource Officer. The town has also recently fostered the creation of the volunteer FLATS
group, which is overseen by the Natural Resources Department and is responsible for maintaining
Brewster’s open space and recreation areas. However, over the last several years, and as noted in the
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 74 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
2007 OSRP, the town needs to establish a separate land manager/ranger position in order to more
effectively manage/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 be a volunteer
position.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 75 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
SECTION 8. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The Goals 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
meetings and review by various town boards, committees and departments. The goals and objectives are
consistent with the 2012 Cape Cod Commission Regional Policy Plan (RPP) and the 2012 Draft
Massachusetts Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
A. Goals and Objectives
Goal 1. Protect and maintain a maximum amount of open space for the purpose of ensuring protection
of a sufficient safe drinking water supply to meet the needs of Brewster’s residents and visitors today
and in the future.
Objective 1.A. Continue the town’s strong commitment to acquiring open space for the purpose of
protecting future wellhead sites.
Objective 1.B. Continue the town’s effective open space protection efforts to protect existing public
supply wells from land-based sources of contamination.
Objective 1.C. Coordinate open space protection measures with wastewater management planning
efforts to protect drinking water resources.
Goal 2. Provide open space and recreation opportunities that maintain Brewster’s rural character and
small coastal community identity.
Objective 2.A. Continue to acquire and preserve lands with significant scenic value.
Objective 2.B. Continue to acquire and preserve lands with significant historical, cultural and/or
archaeological value.
Objective 2.C. Continue the town’s strong commitment to acquiring and protecting upland wooded,
open field, coastal and wetland parcels that preserve and enhance community character.
Objective 2.D. Coordinate open space and recreation planning with efforts to encourage smart growth
development and enhance walkability and bikeability in Brewster.
Objective 2.E. Promote efforts to protect land and aquatic resources for sustainable agriculture and
aquaculture practices.
Goal 3. Plan, coordinate and implement open space protection measures that preserve habitat diversity
and protect marine and fresh surface water resources.
Objective 3.A. Coordinate open space protection measures with efforts to protect marine and fresh water
resources from pollution.
Objective 3.B. Continue to protect open space for the purpose of preserving Brewster’s unique and
fragile ecological habitats and augment the town’s network of wildlife corridors.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 76 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective 3.C. Acquire and preserve lands that mitigate natural hazards and increase Brewster’s
resilience to climate change impacts, including projected sea level rise.
Objective 3.D. Promote active stewardship of open space land.
Goal 4. Provide a variety of recreation opportunities, which accommodate the current and future needs
of the community, and that are in close proximity to all residential areas.
Objective 4.A. Acquire and protect lands of recreational value.
Objective 4.B. Increase access to marine and fresh water resources in a manner that is compatible with
the protection of these resources.
Objective 4.C. Ensure access and utilization of open space and recreation areas to all Brewster residents
and visitors.
Objective 4.D. Continue to reduce or eliminate accessibility barriers to open space and recreation
opportunities for senior and disabled populations.
Objective 4.E. Use a comprehensive approach for recreation land management.
Goal 5. Promote greater coordination and communication about community open space and recreation
needs among local stakeholders and residents as well as with surrounding communities and the region.
Objective 5.A. Continue to coordinate open space acquisition and protection with the drinking water
resource protection needs of neighboring towns.
Objective 5.B. Continue to coordinate with communities and the region on the protection of marine and
fresh surface water resources.
Objective 5.C. Continue to coordinate open space planning efforts with the town’s and region’s
wastewater management goals.
Objective 5.D. Collaborate with neighboring communities and the region to increase connectivity of
multi-modal paths that cross jurisdictional boundaries.
Objective 5E. Increase communication and collaboration with stakeholders in Brewster, neighboring
communities and the region to investigate opportunities for shared open space and recreation resources.
Objective 5F. Establish an implementation process for the 2014 OSRP and future OSRPs.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 77 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
SECTION 9. 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 town. The following plan 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, such as the town’s Local Comprehensive Plan,
Integrated Water Resource Management Plan, and Hazard Mitigation Plan as well as, to the extent
practical, the Cape Cod Commission Regional Policy Plan (RPP). Figure 9-1 geographically depicts the
desired outcome of the proposed Action Plan.
The accomplishment of the action items identified herein require the support of numerous town departments,
boards and committees, as well as private and non-profit stakeholders, and regional, state and federal
agencies. The Open Space Committee will be responsible for overseeing the management and
implementation of the action plan.
Public education is integral to the success of many of these goals, objectives and action items, and it is
essential that town departments, boards and committees incorporate public education into their activities.
Public education and outreach can be conducted through public meetings, pamphlets and brochures, the
media, the internet, and other methods.
For each of the action items, the Action Plan identifies a timeline for completion as either “ongoing,” “short-
term,” “mid-term” or “long-term.” These timelines are further defined as follows:
• Ongoing: the action item is continually implemented;
• Short-term: the action item is planned to be completed between 2014 and 2017;
• Mid-term: the action item is planned to be completed between 2017 and 2021; and
• Long-term: the action item will be initiated by 2021, but is not expected to be completed by 2021.
A funding source has also been identified for each action item. Funding sources are further defined as
follows:
• Town Department: 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; and
• Other: a source of funding, other than those listed above will support the action item. Where known,
further information is provided.
Lastly, for each action item, one or more responsible parties have been identified. Please see the legend at the
end of this section for the responsible party definitions. 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.
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 78 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Goal 1. Protect and maintain a maximum amount of open space for the purpose of ensuring protection
of a sufficient safe drinking water supply to meet the needs of Brewster’s residents and visitors today
and in the future.
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
1.A. Continue the
town’s strong
commitment to
acquiring open
space for the
purpose of
protecting future
wellhead sites.
1.A.1. Identify and monitor lands for
potential future wellhead sites and
consider opportunities for purchasing
these land areas.
Ongoing Water Dept.
funds, CPA
funds, State
grant funds
OSC, Water
Dept, Water
Com
1.B. Continue the
town’s effective
open space
protection efforts
to protect existing
public supply
wells from land-
based sources of
contamination.
1.B.1. 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
Department,
Grant, CPA
funds,
Town
Meeting
OSC, BCT,
COMPACT,
Water Dept
1.B.2. Continue to enforce the town’s
Water Quality Protection Bylaw.
Ongoing Town
Department
WQRC
1.B.3. 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
Department,
Town
Meeting
CWMPC,
Town
Planner,
BOH
1.B.4. Implement the recommendations
of Brewster’s Integrated Water Resource
Management Plan related to public water
supply protection.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grant,
Town
Meeting
CWMPC,
Town
Planner,
PLAN
1.C. Coordinate
open space
protection
measures with
wastewater
management
planning efforts to
protect drinking
water resources.
1.C.1. Implement the recommendations
of Brewster’s Integrated Water Resource
Management Plan related to wastewater
management.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grant,
Town
Meeting
CWMPC,
Town
Planner,
PLAN
1.C.2. Continue to implement the
monitoring well program in Zone II
areas.
Ongoing Town
Department
Water Dept,
NAT,
WQRC
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 79 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Goal 2. Provide open space and recreation opportunities that maintain Brewster’s rural character and
small coastal community identity.
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
2.A. Continue to
acquire and
preserve lands
with significant
scenic value.
2.A.1. 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.
Long-
term
Town
Meeting,
CPA funds
BHC,
OKHHDC,
BCT, PLAN,
AG COM
2.A.2. Implement the
recommendations of the Brewster
Reconnaissance Report related to
scenic resources.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grant, Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town
Planner, BHC,
OSC, PLAN,
AG COM
2.A.3. Continue to identify and
recommend roadways that should be
designated as scenic pursuant to
MCL ch. 40 sec. 15c.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town
Planner, BHC,
NAT,
OKHHDC, AG
COM
2.A.4. Identify and map specimen
trees. Report species, age and
condition to OSP for review, with
recommendations to CPA for
protection of these trees as an article
for Town Meeting.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grant, Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town
Planner, NAT,
CONS COM,
AG COM, DPW
2.B. Continue to
acquire and
preserve lands
with significant
historical, cultural
and/or
archaeological
value.
2.B.1. Implement the
recommendations of the Brewster
Reconnaissance Report related to
historic and archaeological
resources.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grant, Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town
Planner, BHC,
AG COM,
CONS COM
2.B.2. 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
Department,
Town
Meeting
BHC, BHS, AG
COM
2.B.3. Continue to identify and
recommend historical or
archaeological sites that the town
should consider purchasing.
Ongoing Town
Department,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
BHC, BHS, AG
COM
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 80 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
2.B.4. Create a pamphlet on historic
buildings and their significance for
owners and prospective buyers as a
way to encourage preservation of
these sites.
Mid-term Town
Department,
Grant, CPA
funds
BHC, BHS, AG
COM
2.B.5. Conduct an audit of the
current Zoning Bylaws and
recommend amendments to further
protect historic and archaeological
resources.
Mid-term Town
Department,
Town
Meeting
PLAN, Town
Planner, BHC,
BHS
2.C. Continue the
Town’s strong
commitment to
acquiring and
protecting upland
wooded, open
field, coastal and
wetland parcels
that preserve and
enhance
community
character.
2.C.1. Continue to maintain a
working priority parcel map for open
space acquisition or conservation
easements, including 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 and/or buffer to
wetland;
• links to existing open space;
• wildlife habitat (presence of
BioMap Core habitat and/or
NHESP rare species habitat
areas);
• ponds (ranking data from the
Cape Cod Priority Ponds
Project);
• ZOC- Zone of Contribution; and
• PLAAP - Possible future
wellfield lands.
Ongoing Town
Department,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting,
State
L.A.N.D.
Grant,
Federal
Drinking
Water Grant
OSC, NAT,
CONS COM,
BHC, BCT,
COMPACT
2.C.2. Continue to seek out and
apply for grants to fund acquisition
of open space parcels.
Ongoing Town
Department
OSC, BCT,
COMPACT
2.C.3. Educate the public 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 CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
OSC, BCT,
COMPACT
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 81 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
2.C.4. Continue to 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.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Town
Meeting
Town Planner,
PLAN
2.C.5. Develop concepts which seek
to connect newly created open space
with existing resources such as lot
clustering, donation of land,
conservation easements or open
space acquisitions, to encourage the
creation of wildlife and trail
corridors.
Mid-term Town
Department,
Grants, CPA
Grants,Town
Meeting
Town Planner,
PLAN, OSC,
BCT,
COMPACT
2.C.6. Continue to transfer
municipally owned properties that
are important for conservation to the
custody and control of the
Conservation Commission.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Town
Meeting
BOS, CONS
COM
2.D. Coordinate
open space and
recreation
planning with
efforts to
encourage smart
growth
development and
enhance
walkability and
bikeability in
Brewster.
2.D.1. Educate the public regarding
the benefits of alternative modes of
transportation, such as walking and
biking.
Ongoing CPA funds,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
BIKE
2.D.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 are
needed.
Ongoing CPA funds,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
PATH, BIKE,
DPW, BOS,
CONS COM
2.D.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,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
BIKE, Police,
NAT, OSC,
BOS, DPW,
REC, MA DNR
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 82 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
2.D.4. Encourage safer interaction
between bicyclists and motorists
through educational programs/
pamphlets. Include bicycle safety
and “share the road” information in
visitor brochures and literature.
Consider roadway signage that alerts
the auto driver of potential cyclists
or roadway striping that delineates
separate spaces for autos and
cyclists.
Ongoing CPA funds,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
BIKE, DPW,
POLICE, BOS
2.D.5. Enforce regulations/ laws for
both motorists and bicyclists.
Ongoing Town
Department
POLICE
2.D.6. 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.
Long-
term
CPA funds,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
BIKE, POLICE,
BOS, DPW
2.D.7. 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
Department,
Town
Meeting
BIKE
2.D.8. Initiate annually funded
pedestrian pathways program to
effectively address the need for
renovating and constructing
pedestrian pathways and crosswalks.
Selection of projects should be
guided by safety needs,
concentration of existing or likely
pedestrian activity and logical
extensions of and additions to the
existing pedestrian pathway network
Long-
term
Grants, CPA
funds, Town
Meeting
BOS, BIKE,
PATH, DPW,
BNC, POLICE,
PLAN, Town
Planner
2.D.9. Continue with the Brewster
Pathways connections through
Town, to Harwich, Dennis and
Orleans. Publicize Pathways and
provide guides for residents/visitors.
Mid-term Grants, CPA
funds, Town
Meeting
PATH, NAT,
OSC, BCT,
COMPACT
2.E. Promote
efforts to protect
land and aquatic
resources for
sustainable
2.E.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
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 83 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
agriculture and
aquaculture
practices.
2.E.2. Implement a shade and
specimen tree program to maintain
existing trees, and plant additional
trees as appropriate.
Long-
term
Grants,
Town
Meeting
Tree Warden,
NAT, CONS
COM, DPW,
Barnstable
County
2.E.3. Encourage participation by
town departments and residents in
Arbor Days and other government
“green” campaigns.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
Tree Warden,
NAT, BOS,
CONS COM,
DPW,
Barnstable
County
2.E.4. 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.
Mid-term Town
Department,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
AG COM, BCT,
COMPACT
2.E.5. 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
Department,
Town
Meeting
AG COM, OSC,
BCT,
COMPACT
2.E.6. Promote Town
approval/Support of “Right to Farm
Bylaw”
Short-
Term
Town
Meeting
AG COM
2.E.7. Support agricultural land use
by supporting farmers markets, “buy
local” programs and other steps to
support markets for locally grown
produce.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
AG COM, BOS,
CCMNH
Goal 3. Plan, coordinate and implement open space protection measures that preserve habitat diversity
and protect marine and fresh surface water resources.
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
3.A. Coordinate
open space
protection
measures with
efforts to protect
3.A.1. Implement the recommendations
of Brewster’s Integrated Water Resource
Management Plan related to protection
of marine and fresh water resources as
well as stormwater management.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Town
Meeting,
Grants
CWMPC,
Town
Planner,
PLAN,
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 84 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
marine and fresh
water resources
from pollution.
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
Department,
Grants
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
Department,
Grants
CONS
COM,
NAT,
PLAN,
Town
Planner,
BOH
3.A.4. Monitor lands within buffer areas
to marine and freshwater resources, as
well as lands in close proximity or are
thought to compromise these
watersheds, and consider opportunities
for purchasing lands for open space
protection.
Ongoing Town
Department,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
OSC,
CWMPC,
BCT,
COMPACT
3.A.5. Encourage low impact
development and green infrastructure
practices as approaches to protect marine
and fresh water resources from
stormwater pollution through
amendments to local zoning bylaws and
regulations.
Short-
term
Town
government
CWMPC,
PLAN,
Town
Planner,
CONS
COM, NAT
3.A.6. Draft and adopt a stormwater
management general bylaw.
Mid-term Town
government
CWMPC,
Town
Planner,
BOS
3.A.7. Continue management and
correction of tidal restrictions to promote
enhanced flushing.
Ongoing Grants NAT,
CONS
COM, DPW
3.A.8. Provide incentives to restore
altered or degraded wetlands, buffer
areas and ponds.
Long-term Town
Department
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.
Long-term Town
Department
CONS
COM
3.B. Continue to
protect open space
for the purpose of
preserving
Brewster’s unique
3.B.1. 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.
Long-term Town
Department
PLAN,
CONS
COM, NAT,
Town
Planner
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 85 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
and fragile
ecological habitats
and augment the
Town’s network of
wildlife corridors.
3.B.2. Inventory 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.
Ongoing Town
Department
OSC, NAT,
BCT,
COMPACT
3.C. Acquire and
preserve lands that
mitigate natural
hazards and
increase
Brewster’s
resilience to
climate change
impacts, including
projected sea level
rise.
3.C.1. Finalize and adopt the town’s
draft Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Mid-term Town
Department,
Town
Meeting
Town
Planner
3.C.2. Implement the action items
identified in Brewster’s Multi-Hazard
Mitigation Plan.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants
Town
Planner,
PLAN, BOS
3.C.3. Ensure that the local floodplain
zoning district bylaw is consistent with
federal and state regulations and FEMA
requirements
Ongoing Town
Department
Town
Planner
3.C.4. Monitor lands within areas that
are vulnerable to coastal erosion, storm
event flooding and sea level rise, and
consider opportunities for purchasing
these lands for open space as a way to
minimize damage to structures and
property.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
OSC,
PLAN,
BCT,
COMPACT,
BOS
3.C.5. 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
Department,
Town
Meeting
PLAN,
Town
Planner
3.C.6. Incorporate climate change
projections, including sea level rise and
increased storm frequency and duration,
into planning decisions for future open
space acquisitions as well as
development of recreation facilities.
Ongoing Town
Department
Town
Planner,
PLAN,
OSC, NAT,
REC
3.D. Promote
active stewardship
of open space
land.
3.D.1. Organize public education and
stewardship events, such as spring clean-
up events, to be held at public open
space areas.
Ongoing Town
Department
FLATS,
CONS
COM, NAT,
OSC, BCT
3.D.2. Continue to host Brewster
Conservation Day on an annual basis.
Ongoing Town
Department
NAT, BCT,
Water Dept,
OSC,
Barnstable
County,
FLATS
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 86 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Goal 4. Provide a variety of recreation opportunities, which accommodate the current and future needs
of the community, and that are in close proximity to all residential areas.
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible Parties
4.A. Acquire and
protect lands of
recreational
value.
4.A.1. Inventory town-owned
open space and evaluate
recreational capacity on these
lands, such as trails.
Ongoing Town
Department
REC, NAT, CONS
COM, OSC, REC,
PATH, BOS, 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 trails, canoe
waterways/trails/haul-out
locations or lands which
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 currently
under-supplied areas of
town; and
• Expand existing public and
private conservation,
recreation and open space
lands.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Town
Meeting,
Grants
OSC, REC, CONS
COM, PATH, ACAC,
BIKE
4.B. Increase
access to marine
and fresh water
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 issues.
Ongoing Town
Department
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
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 87 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible Parties
4.C. Ensure
access and
utilization of
open space and
recreation areas
to all Brewster
residents and
visitors.
4.C.1. Develop a list of
accessibility improvements for
open space and recreation
areas, and prioritize based on
need.
Short-term Town
Department
ACAC, NAT, DPW
4.C.2. Implement accessibility
projects as prioritized.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants
DPW, NAT, CONS
COM, REC, BOS
4.C.3. Provide legally
identified handicapped parking
spaces at all open space and
recreation parking areas.
Ensure that handicapped
parking is monitored and
violations are enforced.
Ongoing Town
Department
DPW, CONS COM,
REC, BOS, POL
4.C.4. Provide additional
benches for recreational areas,
including trails, parks, active
recreation areas, conservation
areas and beaches.
Ongoing Grants,
CPA funds
REC, BOS, DPW,
NAT, CONS COM
4.C.5. 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 Grants,
CPA funds
DPW, REC, NAT,
CONS COM, BOS,
BIKE, PATH
4.C.6. Pursue grant funding for
accessibility improvements.
Ongoing Town
Department
REC, ACAC, DPW,
NAT, PATH
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 88 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible Parties
4.C.7. Develop, 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;
• Southern Herring Run
(from Pleasant Bay);
• Wing 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
Department,
Grants,
CPA funds
NAT, CONS COM,
ALEWIFE
COMMITTEE, MILL
SITES COMMITTEE,
PATH, BCT,
COMPACT, ACAC,
CCMNH, FLATS
4.C.8. 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
Department,
Grants,
CPA funds
NAT, CONS COM,
PATH, REC,
CCMNH, BCT,
COMPACT, FLATS
4.C.9. Enhance access to open
space and recreation programs
and facilities by low-income
and minority populations.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants
NAT, CONS COM,
REC
4.C.10. 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
Department,
Grants
REC
4.D. Continue to
reduce or
eliminate
accessibility
barriers to open
space and
4.D.1. Create separate
trails/areas marked and
designated for horseback
riding, walking/hiking and/or
dog walking in Town open
space areas.
Ongoing Town
Department
AG COM, NAT,
CONS COM, PATH,
BIKE, LOCAL
STABLES, DPW
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 89 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible Parties
recreation
opportunities for
senior and
disabled
populations.
4.D.2. Provide active recreation
areas (e.g., playgrounds, ball
fields, tennis courts) that serve
Brewster’s active recreation
needs.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
REC
4.D.3. Prioritize potential sites
for an off-leash dog park.
Mid-term Town
Department,
Grants,
Town
Meeting
BOS, CONS COM,
NAT
4.E. Use a
comprehensive
approach for
recreation land
management.
4.E.1. Develop a
Comprehensive Management
Plan for Town-owned
recreation lands, including
those owned by the Department
of Recreation and those owned
by other local government
agencies.
Long-term Grants,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
REC, NAT, CONS
COM, BOS
4.E.2. Explore ways to ensure
sustained funding for
recreation facility maintenance.
Long-Term Town
Department
REC
4.E.3. Establish a position of
Park Ranger under the Natural
Resources Department, to:
• Provide oversight of
conservation and recreation
lands;
• Provide public education
concerning utilization of
open space/natural
recreation resources; and
• 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.
Long-term Grants,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
NAT, CONS COM,
OSC, BOS, AMER
4.E.4. Establish “Friends-of-
Facility” groups for
conservation and recreation
areas to promote public and
private involvement in
recreation land management
and maintenance.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Grants,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
FLATS, NAT, CONS
COM, LOCAL
STABLES, DPW,
BCT
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 90 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Goal 5. Promote greater coordination and communication about community open space and recreation
needs among local stakeholders and residents as well as with surrounding communities and the region.
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
5.A. Continue to
coordinate open
space acquisition
and protection
with the drinking
water resource
protection needs of
neighboring
towns.
5.A.1. Work with neighboring towns,
such as Dennis, Harwich and Orleans,
to protect shared groundwater resources
and overlapping wellfield recharge
areas.
Ongoing Town
Department,
CPA funds,
Town
Meeting
CWMPC,
Town
Planner,
Water Dept,
NAT
5.B. Continue to
coordinate with
communities and
the region on the
protection of
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;
• Paine’s Creek – Dennis;
• Namskaket Creek – Orleans;
• Herring River- Harwich, Dennis;
• Bass River- Dennis;
• 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; and
• Bakers Pond - Coastal Plain Pond
Shores and Priority Habitat –
Orleans.
Ongoing Town
Department
BOS, CONS
COM, NAT,
Water Dept,
CWMPC
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 91 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
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
Department,
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
Department,
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
Department
NAT,
CONS COM
5.B.5. As TMDLS are approved for
watersheds, incorporate them into the
Water Protection Bylaw.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Town
Meeting
Planner,
PLAN
5.C. Continue to
coordinate open
space planning
efforts with the
town’s and
region’s
wastewater
management
goals.
5.C.1. Implement the recommendations
of Brewster’s Integrated Water
Resource Management Plan related to
regional coordination.
Ongoing Town
Department,
Town
Meeting
CWMPC,
PLAN,
Town
Planner,
BOH, BOS,
CONS
COM, NAT
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; and
• Cape Cod Pathways Trail - Dennis,
Harwich, Orleans.
Ongoing Town
Department
REC, NAT
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 92 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Objective Action Item Timeline Funding Responsible
Parties
5.D.2. Work with the State to add
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
Department
BIKE,
PATH,
BOS, DPW
5E. Increase
communication
and collaboration
with stakeholders
in Brewster,
neighboring
communities and
the region to
investigate
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:
• The Brewster Conservation Trust;
• The Compact of Cape Cod
Conservation Trusts;
• The Cape Cod Museum of Natural
History;
• Association for the Preservation of
Cape Cod (APCC);
• The Nature Conservancy;
• Orenda Wildlife Trust;
• MA Audubon;
• Ducks Unlimited; and
• The Trust for Public Land.
Ongoing Town
Department
OSC, BCT,
COMPACT,
NAT, CONS
COM
5F. Establish an
implementation
process for the
2014 OSRP and
future OSRPs.
5.F.1. Review the Action Plan at least
annually, and coordinate with
responsible parties to check the status of
action items, and ensure accountability.
Ongoing
(annually)
Town
Department
OSC, REC,
NAT, CONS
COM
5.F.2. Coordinate updating this 2014
OSRP for 2021
Long-term Town
Department
OSC, REC,
NAT, CONS
COM
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 93 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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
BOS – Board of Selectmen
COC – Chamber of Commerce
CCC – Cape Cod Commission
CCMNH –Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
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
NAT – Natural Resources Department
NHESP-Massachusetts Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program
OSC – Open Space Committee
OKHHDC – Old Kings Highway Historic District Committee
PATH – Pathways Committee
PLAN – Planning Board
POLICE– Police Department
REC-Recreation Committee
Water Com – Water Commissioners
Water Dept – Water Department
WQRC – Water Quality Review
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 94 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
SECTION 10. PUBLIC COMMENTS
A. Public Forum, June 12, 2013
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 95 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 96 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 97 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
B. Letters of Review
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 98 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 99 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
C. Comments via Email
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 100 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 101 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 102 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 103 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 104 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 105 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 106 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 107 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 108 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 109 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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
Brewster Open Space Committee (OSC). 1985. 1985 Open Space & Recreation Plan.
Business NH Magazine (BNHM). October 1998. The National Association of Home Builders.
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. (HW) 2013. Town of Brewster Integrated Water Resource Management Plan
Phase II Final Report.
LeBlanc, Guswa, Frimpter, and Londquist, 1986. Groundwater Resources of Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
USGS HA-692.
Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management (CZM). [Date Unknown]. Coastal Submergence Program:
Executive Summary.
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
Oldale, 1969. Geologic Map of the Harwich Quadrangle Barnstable County, Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
USGS Map GQ-786.
Saint, Paul F. 1996. The Saints of Brewster, 1856-1996.
Thoreau, Henry David. January, 2006. Cape Cod. Norton & Co., New York.
Town of Brewster. 2005. Annual Town Report: 2005
Brewster 2014 Open Space & Recreation Plan 110 Town of Brewster
March 7, 2014
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
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.
FIGURES
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\3-1_Regional_Context.mxd
Date: 6/5/2013 Figure 3.1.
±
0 1
Mile
Legend
Town of Brewster
Regional Context
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod BayBrewster
^
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\3-2_Env_Justice.mxd
Date: 6/5/2013 Figure 3.2.
±
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Miles
Legend
Town of Brewster
Environmetal Justice
2010 Populations
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
EJ Criteria, by Block Group
Minority
Income
English isolation
Minority and Income
Minority and English isolation
Income and English isolation
Minority, Income and English isolation
AtlanticOcean
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\3.3_Zoning.mxd
Date: 6/5/2013 Figure 3.3.
±
0 1
Mile
Legend
Town of Brewster
Town of Brewster
Zoning Map
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
Zone
C - Commercial High Density
I - Industrial
MRD - Municipal Refuse District
RL - Residential Low Density
RM - Residential Medium Density
RR - Residential Rural
VB - Village Business
Parcels
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_1_A_Soils.mxd
Date: 7/3/2013 Figure 4-1.A
±
0 1
Mile
Legend
Brewster Soils
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
Hydrologic Soil Group
*Source: NRCS SSURGO-Certified Soils, MassGIS 2012A: Soils with low runoff potential. Soils having high infiltration rates even when thoroughly wetted
and consisting chiefly of deep, well drained to excessively well-drained sands or gravels.
B: Soils having moderate infiltration rates even when thoroughly wetted and consisting chiefly
of moderately deep to deep, moderately well drained to well drained soils with moderately fine
to moderately coarse textures.
C: Soils having slow infiltration rates even when thoroughly wetted and consisting chiefly of soils
with a layer that impedes downward movement of water, or soils with moderately fine to fine textures.
D: Soils with high runoff potential. Soils having very slow infiltration rates even when thoroughly wetted
and consisting chiefly of clay soils with a high swelling potential, soils with a permanent high water table,
soils with a claypan or clay layer at or near the surface, and shallow soils over nearly impervious material.
Definitions:
Town of Brewster
A
B
B/D
C
D
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_1_B_SurfGeo.mxd
Date: 7/3/2013 Figure 4-1.B
±
0 1
Mile
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster
Geologic Features
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
*Source: MassGIS - Surficial Geology (1:24,000)
Artificial Fill
Beach and Dune Deposits
Cranberry Bog
Swamp and Marsh Deposits
Valley-Floor Fluvial Deposits
Coarse
Glacio-lacustrine Fine
Postglacial Deposits Glacial Stratified Deposits Bedrock Outcrops and Thin Till
Thin Till
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_2_Brewsters_Unique_Features.mxd
Date: 7/23/2013 Figure 4-2.
±
0 1
Mile
Cape Cod Bay
Ston y Brook R o ad
1 4
10C
10B 10D
10A
3
9
7
6
5
8
2
Legend
Town of Brewster
¾¾½¾¾½Cape Cod Rail Trail
Nickerson State Park
Brewster's
Unique Features
^11
^13^12
ID #Name ID #Name1 Drummer Boy Park and Windmill Village 9 Stony Brook Grist Mill2Punkhorn Parklands 10A Pinegrove Cemetery3Nickerson State Park 10B Brewster Cemetery4 Cape Cod Museum of Natural History 10C Sears Cemetery5 Brewster Historical Society Museum 10D First Parish/Breakwater Cemetery6Ocean Edge mansion 11 Old Indian Well
7 Crosby Mansion 12 Old Town Hall (currently serving as the Senior Center)
8 Old General Store 13 Captain Mayo Home (currently serving as the Brewster Ladies Library)
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_3_WaterResources.mxd
Date: 6/7/2013 Figure 4.3.
±
0 2
Miles
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's
Water Resources
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
Bass River
Swan Pond
Herring River
Quivett Creek Stony Brook
Cape Cod Bay
Namskaket
Little Namskaket
Pleasant Bay
Ponds
Subwatersheds DEP Wetlands
Zone II
Watersheds
Brewster Zone II
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Date: 7/3/2013 Figure 4-4.
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Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's Drinking Water
Supply Wells and Protection Areas
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
WELL # 3
WELL # 2
WELL # 1
WELL # 4
POTENTIALWELL #5
WELL # 6
!A Public Wells
Water Facilities
%L Storage Tanks
"J Water Treatment Facility
Other Zone II
DCPC Areas
Brewter Zone II
Conservation Lands
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_5_FloodHazard.mxd
Date: 7/3/2013 Figure 4-5.
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's Flood
Hazard Areas
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
Zone
A - An area inundated by 100-year flooding,
for which no Base Flood Elevations have been determined.
AE - An area inundated by 100-year flooding,
for which Base Flood Elevations have been determined.
VE - An area inundated by 100-year flooding with velocity
hazard (wave action); Base Flood Elevations have been determined.
X - An area that is determined to be
outside the 100- and 500-year floodplains.X500 - An area inundated by 500-year
flooding; an area inundated by 100-year
flooding with average depths of less than
1 foot or with drainage areas less than
1 square mile; or an area protected by
levees from 100-year flooding.
0 1
Mile
±
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_6_WetlandResources.mxd
Date: 6/6/2013 Figure 4-6.
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's Wetland
Resource Areas
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
0 1
Mile±DEP Wetlands
!R NHESP Certified Vernal Pools
Barrier Beach System
Coastal Bank, Beach, Dune,
Bluff or Sea Cliff
Cranberry Bog
Open WaterWetlands
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_7_EndangeredSpecies.mxd
Date: 6/24/2013 Figure 4-7.
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's Endangered
Species Habitat
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
0 1
Mile±NHESP Priority Habitats of Rare Species
NHESP Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife
NHESP Natural Communities
BioMap2 Core Habitat
BioMap2 Critical Natural Landscape
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\4_8_acec_.mxd
Date: 6/6/2013 Figure 4-8.
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's Areas of
Critical Environmental Concern
Brewster, Massachusetts
Cape Cod Bay
0 1
Mile±Areas of Critical Environmental Concern
Inner Cape Cod Bay
Pleasant Bay
Pleasant Bay
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Date: 6/24/2013 Figure 5-1.
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's
Open Space
DCPC Areas
Brewter Zone II
Other Zone IIState Conservation Restriction
Brewster Conservation Trust Conservation Restriction
Private land with Brewster Conservation Trust Conservation Restriction
Orenda Wildlife Land Trust
Brewster Conservation Trust Land
Chapter 61, 61A and 61B Land
State Conservation and Recreation Land
Other Municipally-Owned and Managed Conservation and Recreation Land
Recreation Department Owned and Managed
Conservation Commission Owned and Managed
Parcels
±
0 1
Mile
Cape Cod Bay
Path: H:\Projects\2013\13046 Brewster Open Space Plan\GIS\Maps\9_1_Brewsters_Action_Plan.mxd
Date: 6/25/2013 Figure 9-1.
Legend
Town of Brewster
Brewster's
Action Plan
DCPC Areas
Brewter Zone II
Other Zone IIState Conservation Restriction
Brewster Conservation Trust Conservation Restriction
Private land with Brewster Conservation Trust Conservation Restriction
Orenda Wildlife Land Trust
Brewster Conservation Trust Land
Chapter 61, 61A and 61B Land
State Conservation and Recreation Land
Other Municipally-Owned and Managed Conservation and Recreation Land
Recreation Department Owned and Managed
Conservation Commission Owned and Managed
Parcels
±
0 1
Mile
Cape Cod Bay 3.C.4 Protect theShoreline fromCoastal Erosion
!
4.C.5 ImproveSignage for Open Space andRecreation
!
!
2.B.4 PreserveHistoric Buildings
!
!
4.C.7 Develop Trail Brochures
!5.B.2 Continue to Work with Partner Towns on Pleasant Bay TMDL
!
3.A.4 Protect Marine & Freshwater Watershed Areas
!
!
!
5.D.1 Contine to Workwith Neighbor Towns onShared Recreation Resource
4.C.8 ImproveTrail Accessibility
!
5.A.1 Work withNeighboring Towns to Protect Shared GroundwaterResources
!
3.D.2 ContinueAnnual BrewsterConservation Day
!
!
2.D.6 ProvideSafe Bike Routes
2.E.1 SupportPrivate Shellfishing
1.B.1 DrinkingWater Protection!
!
APPENDICES
Appendix A
ADA Inventory
ADA ACCESS SELF-EVALUATION – 2013 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 Assistant Town
Administrator, Jillian Douglass, 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:
Jillian Douglass
ADA Coordinator
Selectmen’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.
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: Jillian Douglass, Assistant Town
Administrator/ADA Coordinator, Selectmen'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.
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
PART II. PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY
Part II Section 1. Facility Inventory
Assessments of Town facilities are conducted by the Brewster Access for All Committee
(ACAC), a group of 5 citizen volunteers. The majority of whom consist of either persons with
disabilities, persons in an immediate family of a person with a disability, or persons who have
extensive experience in the field of disabilities.
The ACAC has conducted a number of assessments of town facilities, the most recent being in
done from 201o to 2013. These assessments included both recreation and conservation areas.
The recommendations of this committee are included in the Goals and Objectives and Action
Items for the Town.
ADA ASSESSMENT
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. Not ADA accessible. No portable bathrooms.
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.
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 limited public access, many trails, some parking, but not ADA access.
No portable bathrooms.
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.
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
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, but not ADA accessible. No portable
bathroom.
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.
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. Not ADA accessible. No
portable bathroom.
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.
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. Not ADA accessible.
No portable bathrooms.
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.
6. Indian Springs 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. Not ADA accessible. No portable bathroom.
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.
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. Not ADA accessible. No portable
bathrooms.
Type of public grant accepted: Purchased using CPA funds and State L.A.N.D. grant. Dennis
Water Department 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.
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, biking
Public access: There is public access, with many trails, but none of them are ADA accessible.
Although, as indicated below there is an accessible viewing/fishing 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.
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.
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 an accessible portable bathroom.
This 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. The ACAC Committee feels that not much more can be done to improve
accessibility of the Upper Mill Pond area.
5‐28‐2013: This parking area should be for handicap parking only. There is plenty of space
for 1‐2 van spaces and 2‐3 regular handicap spaces. This site is lovely and the platform is
easily accessible. The view is great and one could fish off the platform.
This is the only conservation commission owned/controlled “beach” site in town.
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: Nice marked trail. Not ADA accessible. No portable bathroom.
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.
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
Condition: Good
Recreation potential: Hiking, walking, birdwatching, horseback riding, biking
Public access: Existing trails. Not ADA accessible. No portable bathrooms
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.
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. This is not considered ADA accessible, although it might be
wheelchair accessible if one stays on the road, which is flat, but is dirt and not paved. No
portable bathrooms.
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.
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 – leased to the Brewster Historical
Society for their Museum. There is a boardwalk that leads to a small beach on Cape Cod Bay,
accessible by a set of wooden stairs. There is no portable bathroom. Not ADA accessible.
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.
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. Not ADA accessible. 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.
14. White Gate 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. Not ADA accessible. 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.
ADA EVALUATION FORMS: TOWN OF BREWSTER 2013 OPEN SPACE & RECREATION PLAN
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
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
0n 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.
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
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.
ADA ASSESSMENT
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. 1 van accessible parking space
Wheelchair accessible pathways to courts
1 portable bathroom –not wheelchair accessible
Type of public grant accepted: Town funds, CPA funds, USTA grant
Zoning: Commercial High Density
Degree of Protection: Under custody and control of the Recreation Department/
Commission by deed.
FACILITY
LOCATION: TENNIS COURTS - LOCATED OFF UNDERPASS ROAD Map 76 Lot 21
PARKING
Total Spaces Required Required ADA Spaces
Up to 25 21 parking spaces 1 space
1 Van accessible parking space
only marked on the ground
Needs regulation handicap parking sign.
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 x
within 100 ft.
Minimum width of 13 ft includes 8 ft space plus 5 x
ft access aisle
Van space – minimum of 1 van space for every
accessible space, 8 ft wide plus 8 ft aisle.x
Alternative is to make all accessible spaces 11 ft
wide with 5 ft aisle.
Sign with international symbol of accessibility at x Needs handicap parking sign
each space or pair of spaces
Sign minimum 5 ft, maximum 8 ft to top of sign x needs handicap parking sign
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 x
or pair of spaces, if sidewalk (curb) is present
Curbcut is a minimum width of 3 ft, excluding x
sloped sides, has sloped sides, all slopes not to
exceed 1:12, and textured or painted yellow
LOCATION
SITE ACCESS, PATH OF TRAVEL, ENTRANCES
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Site Access
Accessible path of travel from passenger x
disembarking area and parking area to accessible
entrance
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 x
is 2% (1:50).
Continuous common surface, no changes in level x
greater than ½ inch
Any objects protruding onto the pathway must be x no objects
detected by a person with a visual disability using a
cane
RESTROOMS: PORTABLE BATHROOMS
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: 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.
Fields are available for rental by other groups and the charge are used for field
upkeep.
Now that CPA monies may be used for recreation lands not purchased with CPA
funds, the Recreation Department is planning to apply for grants to update these
fields and make them accessible.
Continuous common surface, no changes in level x
greater than ½ inch
Any objects protruding onto the pathway must be x no objects
detected by a person with a visual disability using a
cane
RESTROOMS: PORTABLE BATHROOMS
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Portable bathroom X Not wheelchair accessible
DRINKING FOUNTAIN
Fountain available, located off main walking path x Not accessible
PICNICKING
Picnic table one table x Not accessible
TENNIS COURTS: NNewly installed in 2010-2011. There are 4 adult courts and 4 youth courts. The courts have
accessible viewing areas, with no structures. There is also one picnic table, a drinking fountain and two benches.
None of these are accessible.
Nice paved parking lot, level. Can get up to courts using paved path off parking lot.
There are also bleachers.
RECOMMEND ACCESSIBLE PICNIC TABLES, DRINKING FOUNTAIN AND PORTABLE BATHROOM - ALL
OF WHICH COULD BE FUNDED THROUGH THE CPA.
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.
FACILITY
LOCATION: RECREATION AREA: FREEMANS WAY FIELDS
3 Baseball fields and 1 soccer field. Map 119 Lot 4 25.98 acres
PARKING
Total Spaces Required Required Accessible Spaces
Up to 25 1 space
26-50 approx 10 spaces for soccer 2 spaces No handicap spaces
approx. 40+? For baseball fields
parking spaces are not delineated
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 x
within 100 ft.
Minimum width of 13 ft includes 8 ft space plus 5
ft access aisle x
Van space – minimum of 1 van space for every Plenty of space to create van
accessible space, 8 ft wide plus 8 ft aisle.x accessible parking space
Alternative is to make all accessible spaces 11 ft
wide with 5 ft aisle.
Sign with international symbol of accessibility at x
each space or pair of spaces
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 no curbs anywhere
or pair of spaces, if sidewalk (curb) is present
Curbcut is a minimum width of 3 ft, excluding no curbs anywhere
sloped sides, has sloped sides, all slopes not to
exceed 1:12, and textured or painted yellow
NOW THAT CPA FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE FOR RECREATION PROPERTIES, THE REC. COMMISSION WILL BE
ABLE TO APPLY FOR FUNDS TO DO THE REQUIRED ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS.
SITE ACCESS
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Accessible path of travel from passenger x
disembarking area and parking area to accessible not done yet
entrance
Disembarking area at accessible entrance x not done yet
Surface evenly paved or hard-packed x not done yet
No ponding of water x in some areas
Path of Travel
Path does not require the use of stairs x not done yet
Path is stable, firm and s lip resistant x not done yet
3 ft wide minimum x not done yet
Slope maximum 1:20 (5%) and maximum cross pitch x there are slope issues in ssome
is 2% (1:50).areas
Continuous common surface, no changes in level x not done yet
greater than ½ inch
Any objects protruding onto the pathway must be not done yet
detected by a person with a visual disability using a x
cane
Slope maximum 1:20 (5%) and maximum cross pitch x there are slope issues in ssome
is 2% (1:50).areas
Continuous common surface, no changes in level x not done yet
greater than ½ inch
Any objects protruding onto the pathway must be not done yet
detected by a person with a visual disability using a x
cane
RESTROOMS: PORTABLE BATHROOMS
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
1 regular portable bathroom X
1 wheelchair access portable bathroom X
DRINKING FOUNTAINS
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
None seen x
PICNICKING
Specification Yes No Comments/Transition Notes
Picnic tables x did not see any
Since there is a concession stand - there should be x ?
tables somewhere…..
FREEMANS WAY:
Jeff Dougan of the MA Office of Disability did a site visit survey in August 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.
MA REVIEW:
1. Programmatic Access to the player seating locations
There are 3 baseball and 1 soccer fields provided at this park None of the fields offer an accessible route or
accessible features at the player seating areas. This proves difficult to remedy without major alterations due to
topography of the land leading to very steep inclines and declines to the actual fields. There are other baseball fields
throughout the town that would offer accessible routes and accessible features at the player seating areas.
1. The Town should create a procedure for the reserving or swapping of the accessible fields for participants
needing the accessible features. This should be announced and/or advertised on promotional and reservation
materials as well as the website.
2. Ensure that the accessible fields are truly accessible with regards to the accessible route to the player seating
areas and the actual features provided at the player seating locations. (See checklist).
2. Spectator Seating:
The current layout uses the surrounding lawn for the seating locations. During the survey, potential locations for
wheelchair accessible seating, potential accessible routes to thos locations and potential locations for
accessible parking spaces to serve each field - were discussed.
3. Baseball Field #1 - on left side of road, when facing soccer field: This location was ideal for creating
2 designated accessible parking areas for multiple reasons.
a. Terrain at location
b. People can, from inside the vehicle, see about 95% of the field.
c. Proposed seating location is closest to this area
1. the slope of the land is slight and offers the most practical potion for creating the
accessible route to a new seating location
2. the seating location would be provided on the flat surface and would offer an unobstructed view of the
entire field
3. the seating location and accessible route would need to be a hard packed surface
4. Baseball Fields # 2 and 3 - on the right hand side of the road - whhen facing the soccer field The
layout of the two fields provides an opportunity for one accesible route to serve both fields.
a. The accessible parking spaces could be provided at the base of this incline.
b. The incline may exceed 5%, due to the elevation change, and a variance from the MAAB may needd to be sought.
depending on what can be created.
c. The single path would branch off to the separate seating locations for the two fields and the concession stand. This
location seemed to be the most easily converted to besome the accessible seating location. It offers a raised area for
someone to see the entire field and is close to the concession stand.
5. The Soccer Field:
The soccer field is recessed; however, the land around it is level. The route from the parking to a newly created
accessible seating location can easily be created as there is little to deal with.
There is a good location for two designated accessible parking spaces.
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 following are comments
from the ACAC from their 2010 – 2013 accessibility review and comments.
The ACAC evaluations included properties that were under the custody and control of the Board
of Selectmen as well as the Recreation Department and the Conservation Commission. The
Recreation and Conservation property comments are highlighted.
The above attached evaluation by Jeff Dougan, Assistant Director for Community Services,
Massachusetts Office on Disability indicates specific recommendations for the Recreation Fields
at Freeman’s Way
……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
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 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:
y 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.
y 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.
y 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.
y Scattered benches strategically placed for everyone’s use was suggested by many who took
our survey.
y 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:
y 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.
y Improve the lighting by the handicap parking spots by the sidewalk. There is only one light
there now; two would be better.
y Keep the golf cart constantly perusing the parking lots checking for new arrivals, as they do
now. Possibly set up designated pickup areas for the golf cart to assist the walkers.
y 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 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 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
y Set up the accessible ramps and platforms at the beaches so they are available to the public
from May 1st thru late October.
y We recommend using accessible portable bathrooms wherever possible but especially at
Drummer Boy Park and three particular beaches: Crosby Landing (which has one), Linnell
Landing, and Mant’s Landing.
y 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
y Punkhorn Parklands: develop an accessible pathway with turnaround or viewing platform.
y Spruce Hill: develop a wheelchair accessible pathway to a platform overlooking the beach.
y Quivett Marsh Overlook: develop a wheelchair accessible pathway and overlook.
y 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
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.
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
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
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.
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
………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Appendix B
Community Survey Results
Brewster 2013 Open Space & Recreation Plan Public Survey 1
2013 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan Update Community Survey
The Town is in the process of updating its Open Space and Recreation Plan, which is necessary to qualify for state
reimbursement programs for acquisition and protection of important open space. This survey is being conducted to
understand the needs and concerns of Brewster’s citizens.
“Open Space” in this survey is defined as “public and privately owned undeveloped lands which are important for a
variety of reasons, including recreation, agriculture, forestry or simply because of their scenic qualities and their
contribution to the overall character of the town.” Please take a few minutes to answer all of the applicable questions.
Please drop off your completed survey by Friday May 17, 2013 at the Town Hall (box at the front door), the Council on
Aging or the Ladies Library. You may also complete the survey on-line at:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BrewsterOSRP2013.
Thank you for your help!
PART 1: Open Space and Conservation
1. How important is it for the Town to continue to acquire and preserve open space and natural areas in Brewster?
(please check one)
____ Very Important ____ Important ____ Neutral ____ Less Important ____ Not important
2. How important is it to preserve: (please check one for a. – j.)
Important Neutral Not Important
a. Agricultural land and farmland ____ ____ ____
b. Habitat areas, such as salt marshes, beaches, ponds and wetlands,
including endangered species habitat ____ ____ ____
c. Land areas for protection of groundwater and drinking water ____ ____ ____
d. Areas around ponds and lakes ____ ____ ____
e. Aesthetics/scenic views and vistas ____ ____ ____
f. Beach land and access points for recreational needs ____ ____ ____
g. Tracts of land linking open space parcels ____ ____ ____
h. Buildings and places of historical value or architectural interest ____ ____ ____
i. Open spaces to meet active recreational needs ____ ____ ____
j. Open spaces to meet passive recreational needs ____ ____ ____
3. What Town actions do you favor to preserve and protect open space? (please check all that apply)
____ Cooperative land conservation efforts between public and private entities
____ Town purchase of land, even if it means additional taxes
____ Mandatory dedication of open space by developers
____ Conservation Restrictions/Easements – purchased/acquired
____ Zoning that encourages Open Space Conservation
____ Other; please specify: __________________________________________________
4. How easy are the following conservation lands to find and use? (please check one for a. – d.)
Very Easy Easy Not Easy Difficult
a. Ponds/lakes ____ ____ ____ ____
b. Forested lands ____ ____ ____ ____
c. Beaches ____ ____ ____ ____
d. Herring run ____ ____ ____ ____
Brewster 2013 Open Space & Recreation Plan Public Survey 2
PART 2: Recreation
5. How do you rate the quality of the following existing recreational facilities? (please check one for a. – l.)
Excellent Good Average Below
average
Poor
Active Recreation
a. Athletic fields (e.g., soccer, football, baseball) ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
b. Tennis courts ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
c. Parks ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
d. Golf courses ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
e. Playgrounds ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
f. Bike trails ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
g. Mountain bike trails ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
h. Existing town facilities for boating and fishing ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
Passive Recreation
i. Walking/hiking trails ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
j. Bird watching/nature enjoyment ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
k. Beach parking and amenities ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
l. Other; please specify: ________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
6. How easy are recreation areas to find and use? (please check one)
____ Very accessible ____ Somewhat accessible ____ Not accessible ____ Don’t know
7. How would you rate Town Conservation and Recreation lands relative to their handicapped (ADA) accessibility?
(please check one)
____ Very accessible ____ Somewhat accessible ____ Not accessible ____ Don’t know
8. What Town actions do you favor to operate and maintain recreational facilities? (please check all that apply)
____
Fees paid by both residents and non-residents for the use of recreational facilities; fees would be used for
facility maintenance and acquisition.
____
Fees paid by non-residents only for the use of recreational facilities; fees would be used for facility
maintenance and acquisition.
____
An ‘Adopt-a-Facility’/’Friends-of-a-Facility’ program that allows private individuals or groups to take
responsibility for a facility’s maintenance and/or funding.
____ Expand parking areas at recreation facilities.
____ Provide better public transportation to/from facilities.
____ Other; please specify: __________________________________________________
9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster? _________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster? ________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
11. Do you believe you are getting sufficient information about the Town’s open space and recreation resources? (please
check one) ___ Yes ___ Somewhat ___ No
12. How familiar are you with the Cape Cod Pathways trail system and the Brewster section of the Pathway? (please
check one) ___ Very familiar ___ Somewhat familiar ___ Unfamiliar
Brewster 2013 Open Space & Recreation Plan Public Survey 3
13. How do you receive news/information concerning open space and recreation resources? (please check one for a. – i.)
Often Sometimes Never
a. Newspaper ____ ____ ____
b. Town’s website ____ ____ ____
c. Facebook ____ ____ ____
d. Twitter ____ ____ ____
e. Other internet source(s); please specify: ____________ ____ ____ ____
f. Radio ____ ____ ____
g. Word of mouth ____ ____ ____
h. Natural Resources Department informational pamphlets/signs ____ ____ ____
i. Other; please specify: _____________ ____ ____ ____
14. In planning for future open space and recreation, how important are the following? (please check one for a. – w.)
Important Neutral Not Important
Active Recreation
a. Athletic fields (e.g., soccer, football, baseball) ____ ____ ____
b. Tennis courts ____ ____ ____
c. Parks ____ ____ ____
d. Golf courses and driving ranges ____ ____ ____
e. Playgrounds ____ ____ ____
f. Bike trails ____ ____ ____
g. Mountain bike trails ____ ____ ____
h. Public boating and fishing ____ ____ ____
i. Skateboarding ____ ____ ____
j. Outdoor track ____ ____ ____
k. Basketball courts ____ ____ ____
l. Swimming pool ____ ____ ____
m. Amphitheater ____ ____ ____
n. Night-lighted facilities ____ ____ ____
o. Motocross/ATV specific areas ____ ____ ____
p. Community gardens ____ ____ ____
q. Hunting areas ____ ____ ____
r. Horseback riding areas ____ ____ ____
Passive Recreation
s. Walking/hiking trails ____ ____ ____
t. Bird watching/nature enjoyment ____ ____ ____
u. Beach parking and amenities ____ ____ ____
v. Dog/pet walking areas; please specify a potential location if
known: ________________________ ____ ____ ____
w. Other; please specify: ________________________ ____ ____ ____
15. Which of the following best describes you? (please check one)
___ Brewster year-round resident ___ Brewster seasonal resident ___ Visitor ___ Other; please specify:__________
Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey on the back of this form.
Thank you very much for your participation in this survey!
1 of 50
Brewster 2013 OSR Plan Update Community
Survey
1. How important is it for the Town to continue to acquire and preserve open space and
natural areas in Brewster? (please check one)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Very Important 63.8%169
Important 25.7%68
Neutral 5.3%14
Less Important 3.4%9
Not Important 1.9%5
answered question 265
skipped question 6
2 of 50
2. How important is it to preserve: (please check one for each row)
Important Neutral Not Important
Rating
Count
a. Agricultural land and farmland 57.7% (150)35.4% (92)6.9% (18)260
b. Habitat areas, such as salt
marshes, beaches, ponds and
wetlands, including endangered
species habitat
89.1% (236)9.1% (24)1.9% (5)265
c. Land areas for protection of
groundwater, drinking water and
watersheds
94.7% (252)4.1% (11)1.1% (3)266
d. Areas around ponds and lakes 83.6% (224)13.4% (36)3.0% (8)268
e. Aesthetics/scenic views and
vistas 67.3% (179)26.7% (71)6.0% (16)266
f. Beach land and access points for
recreational needs 86.0% (228)10.9% (29)3.0% (8)265
g. Tracts of land linking open space
parcels 62.7% (165)28.1% (74)9.1% (24)263
h. Buildings and places of historical
value or architectural interest 57.5% (153)33.8% (90)8.6% (23)266
i. Open spaces to meet active
recreational needs 73.3% (195)22.9% (61)3.8% (10)266
j. Open spaces to meet passive
recreational needs 66.3% (175)27.7% (73)6.1% (16)264
answered question 269
skipped question 2
3 of 50
3. What Town actions do you favor to preserve and protect open space? (please check all
that apply)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Cooperative land conservation
efforts between public and
private entities
86.2%219
Town purchase of land, even if it
means additional taxes
54.7%139
Mandatory dedication of open
space by developers
65.7%167
Conservation
Restrictions/Easements –
purchased/acquired
57.1%145
Zoning that encourages Open
Space Conservation
73.2%186
Other (please specify)
6.7%17
answered question 254
skipped question 17
4. How easy are the following conservation lands to find and use? (please check one for
each row)
Very Easy Easy Not Easy Difficult
Rating
Count
a. Ponds/lakes 37.3% (98)44.1% (116)16.3% (43)2.3% (6)263
b. Forested lands 28.5% (74)41.9% (109)27.3% (71)2.3% (6)260
c. Beaches 60.9% (159)28.7% (75)9.2% (24)1.1% (3)261
d. Herring run 63.4% (166)30.9% (81)4.6% (12)1.1% (3)262
answered question 263
skipped question 8
4 of 50
5. How do you rate the quality of the following existing recreational facilities? (please check
one for each row)
Excellent Good Average
Below
average
Poor
Rating
Count
a. Athletic fields (e.g., soccer,
football, baseball)
28.8% (70)48.6% (118)19.8% (48)2.5% (6)0.4% (1)243
b. Tennis courts 48.7% (116)39.5% (94)8.8% (21)2.5% (6)0.4% (1)238
c. Parks 30.9% (76)45.5% (112)19.1% (47)2.4% (6)2.0% (5)246
d. Golf courses 61.6% (149)29.3% (71)8.3% (20)0.4% (1)0.4% (1)242
e. Playgrounds 16.7% (40)49.8% (119)28.9% (69)4.2% (10)0.4% (1)239
f. Bike trails 46.9% (120)39.5% (101)12.1% (31)1.2% (3)0.4% (1)256
g. Mountain bike trails 8.0% (16)22.5% (45)48.5% (97)15.5% (31)5.5% (11)200
h. Existing town facilities for
boating and fishing
9.4% (22)31.5% (74)43.4% (102)10.6% (25)5.1% (12)235
i. Walking/hiking trails 28.7% (71)44.1% (109)22.3% (55)4.0% (10)0.8% (2)247
j. Bird watching/nature enjoyment 31.7% (76)44.6% (107)20.0% (48)2.5% (6)1.3% (3)240
k. Beach parking and amenities 10.4% (26)22.3% (56)32.3% (81)23.9% (60)11.2% (28)251
Other (please specify)
21
answered question 261
skipped question 10
5 of 50
6. How easy are recreation areas to find and use? (please check one)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Easy 69.8%180
Not easy 23.6%61
Don’t know 6.6%17
answered question 258
skipped question 13
7. How would you rate Town Conservation and Recreation lands relative to their
handicapped (ADA) accessibility? (please check one)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Very accessible 7.8%20
Somewhat accessible 37.3%95
Not accessible 14.9%38
Don’t know 40.0%102
answered question 255
skipped question 16
6 of 50
8. What Town actions do you favor to operate and maintain recreational facilities? (please
check all that apply)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Fees paid by both residents and
non-residents for the use of
recreational facilities; fees would
be used for facility maintenance
and acquisition.
56.2%141
Fees paid by non-residents only for
the use of recreational facilities;
fees would be used for facility
maintenance and acquisition.
40.2%101
An ‘Adopt-a-Facility’/’Friends-of-a-
Facility’ program that allows private
individuals or groups to take
responsibility for a facility’s
maintenance and/or funding.
51.8%130
Expand parking areas at recreation
facilities.
47.4%119
Provide better public transportation
to/from facilities.
29.5%74
Other (please specify)
10.8%27
answered question 251
skipped question 20
9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
Response
Count
190
answered question 190
skipped question 81
7 of 50
10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
Response
Count
211
answered question 211
skipped question 60
11. Do you believe you are getting sufficient information about the Town’s open space and
recreation resources? (please check one)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Yes 26.1%64
Somewhat 51.8%127
No 22.0%54
answered question 245
skipped question 26
12. How familiar are you with the Cape Cod Pathways trail system and the Brewster section
of the Pathway? (please check one)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Very familiar 29.8%75
Somewhat familiar 44.8%113
Unfamiliar 25.4%64
answered question 252
skipped question 19
8 of 50
13. How do you receive news/information concerning open space and recreation
resources? (please check one for each row)
Often Sometimes Never
Rating
Count
a. Newspaper 32.2% (76)59.7% (141)8.1% (19)236
b. Town’s website 17.9% (39)58.3% (127)23.9% (52)218
c. Facebook 2.0% (4)9.5% (19)88.4% (176)199
d. Twitter 0.5% (1)1.5% (3)97.9% (190)194
e. Other internet source(s); please
specify: ____________
4.9% (7)13.2% (19)81.9% (118)144
f. Radio 6.9% (14)36.3% (74)56.9% (116)204
g. Word of mouth 36.4% (84)54.5% (126)9.1% (21)231
h. Natural Resources Department
informational pamphlets/signs
17.9% (37)48.8% (101)33.3% (69)207
Other (please specify)
30
answered question 250
skipped question 21
9 of 50
14. In planning for future open space and recreation, how important are the following?
(please check one for each row)
Important Neutral Not Important
Rating
Count
a. Athletic fields (e.g., soccer,
football, baseball)49.0% (120)41.2% (101)9.8% (24)245
b. Tennis courts 34.2% (82)44.6% (107)21.3% (51)240
c. Parks 77.5% (186)20.0% (48)2.5% (6)240
d. Golf courses and driving ranges 54.3% (132)25.5% (62)20.2% (49)243
e. Playgrounds 50.0% (119)43.7% (104)6.3% (15)238
f. Bike trails 65.4% (159)29.2% (71)5.3% (13)243
g. Mountain bike trails 16.1% (38)52.5% (124)31.4% (74)236
h. Public boating and fishing 49.8% (120)45.2% (109)5.0% (12)241
i. Skateboarding 10.0% (24)51.3% (123)38.8% (93)240
j. Outdoor track 11.8% (28)47.9% (114)40.3% (96)238
k. Basketball courts 24.4% (59)53.3% (129)22.3% (54)242
l. Swimming pool 25.7% (62)30.7% (74)43.6% (105)241
m. Amphitheater 13.3% (32)46.7% (112)40.0% (96)240
n. Night-lighted facilities 19.7% (47)45.6% (109)34.7% (83)239
o. Motocross/ATV specific areas 4.6% (11)16.7% (40)78.8% (189)240
p. Community gardens 51.9% (124)35.6% (85)12.6% (30)239
q. Hunting areas 7.1% (17)30.3% (72)62.6% (149)238
r. Horseback riding areas 25.3% (60)50.2% (119)24.5% (58)237
s. Walking/hiking trails 78.3% (191)20.1% (49)1.6% (4)244
t. Bird watching/nature enjoyment 62.5% (150)32.9% (79)4.6% (11)240
u. Beach parking and amenities 82.4% (201)13.5% (33)4.1% (10)244
v. Dog/pet walking areas 46.7% (113)27.3% (66)26.0% (63)242
10 of 50
Other (please specify)
38
answered question 251
skipped question 20
15. Which of the following best describes you? (please check one)
Response
Percent
Response
Count
Brewster year-round resident 83.4%201
Brewster seasonal resident 10.4%25
Visitor 6.2%15
Other (please specify)
15
answered question 241
skipped question 30
16. Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey here.
Response
Count
76
answered question 76
skipped question 195
11 of 50
12 of 50
Page 3, Q3. What Town actions do you favor to preserve and protect open space? (please check all that apply)
1 Keep all Punkhorn roads totally open Jun 5, 2013 7:44 PM
2 Laws that prohibit pesticides on land Jun 5, 2013 7:38 PM
3 Follow up on Cons Com decisions to ensure compliance/improve ecology Jun 5, 2013 6:54 PM
4 Captains Golf Courses May 31, 2013 8:04 AM
5 no dog parks please May 31, 2013 5:38 AM
6 Captains golf course. Why we moved here.May 31, 2013 4:08 AM
7 Definitely no more taxes!!!!May 30, 2013 6:00 PM
8 NO additional taxes to purchase land!May 30, 2013 5:17 PM
9 Protection of our coastal resource areas, as opposed to property owners' rights
to protect the property they CHOSE to own, with revetments.
May 29, 2013 6:56 PM
10 none May 24, 2013 7:06 PM
11 public access to conservation financial records May 18, 2013 2:12 PM
12 any and every land use control possible, understanding that land for open
purchase is important yet its a highly inefecient way to preserve as compared to
zoning.
May 16, 2013 9:46 PM
13 Tax title, purchase important parcels to demolish structures May 16, 2013 12:13 PM
14 Dog park for off leash exercise and socializing.May 16, 2013 4:11 AM
15 PRESERVATION OF CURRENT CONSERVATION LANDS TO BEHELD
WITHUT CHANGING CURRENT LAND FOR OTHERS
May 12, 2013 6:43 AM
16 Use the donated Arthur property near Brewster Road for recreation.May 9, 2013 10:22 AM
17 Building a dedicated off leash dog park May 9, 2013 5:52 AM
13 of 50
14 of 50
Page 4, Q5. How do you rate the quality of the following existing recreational facilities? (please check one for
each row)
1 exploring Punkhorns Jun 5, 2013 7:45 PM
2 Need mapes for Rowley, Punkhorn & path near Twin Pines Jun 5, 2013 7:00 PM
3 Signage is not uniformed for all facilities. Not enough beach parking. What
amenities at the beach porta potties?
May 31, 2013 11:57 AM
4 Captains golf course is one major reason we decided to buy in Brewster May 31, 2013 7:20 AM
5 The Golf Course and Drummer Boy are 2 best assets May 31, 2013 5:40 AM
6 can't assess May 30, 2013 5:10 PM
7 I moved to Brewster for the golf courses.May 29, 2013 5:43 AM
8 Cape Cod Baseball League Brewster Whitecaps Stony Brook Field May 28, 2013 7:11 PM
9 access to all conservation areas is poor May 24, 2013 7:07 PM
10 appropriate areas for exercising dogs-poor May 21, 2013 9:14 AM
11 dog exercise areas=POOR May 18, 2013 2:14 PM
12 Develop parks facilities further May 16, 2013 12:14 PM
13 The time that non-residents can park at a beach is too early; often there are no
spaces at Linnell and Crosby because of this.
May 15, 2013 8:02 AM
14 Would be nice to have a skate park/other outdoor activities for teens May 14, 2013 7:02 AM
15 PARKING A MAJOR ISSUE AT BEACHES & OTHER SPOTS ALSO LACK OF
APPROPRIATE HANDICAPPED ACCESS AT MANY MANY LOCATIONS
May 12, 2013 6:47 AM
16 Dog friendly areas are nonexistent , very poor May 11, 2013 2:37 PM
17 should be year round trash pick up at beachs,parking for residence in the
summer is a nightmare and the police should monitor for fee violations at parking
lots. Beach parking is a major problem.
May 10, 2013 5:31 AM
18 no side walks or recreation for teens May 10, 2013 4:16 AM
19 It's tough to find most trails. I just learned about some and they aren't marked. May 9, 2013 10:24 AM
20 Dog Park Poor May 8, 2013 5:20 PM
21 desperately need more beach parking please May 7, 2013 11:18 AM
15 of 50
16 of 50
Page 5, Q8. What Town actions do you favor to operate and maintain recreational facilities? (please check all that
apply)
1 need betetr signage Jun 5, 2013 7:16 PM
2 general taxes Jun 5, 2013 7:08 PM
3 Allow leashed dogs on beaches off beach hours Jun 5, 2013 7:01 PM
4 The fees paid by town residents are appropriate for Captain's but not other
recreational facilities. A minimal fee such as beach parking is appropriate.
Jun 3, 2013 6:13 AM
5 keep parking at beaches under control Jun 3, 2013 5:11 AM
6 I support yearly sticker or membership fees for residents and daily/weekly fees
for visitors.
May 31, 2013 4:30 PM
7 Allow no residents to buy multiple beach passes with no return with bad weather.
Or figure out a way to purchase at the beach
May 31, 2013 11:59 AM
8 increase for Captains Golf Course,the town's jewel May 31, 2013 10:48 AM
9 No use of tax money for rec. facilities!!! Town operated summer buses!!!May 30, 2013 6:01 PM
10 ?May 30, 2013 5:40 PM
11 spruce up the beaches so they are on par with those of Dennis May 30, 2013 4:30 PM
12 Lease the space May 30, 2013 3:38 PM
13 Green access to facilities. No new parking lots.May 30, 2013 6:31 AM
14 Parking can not be expanded at many beaches May 29, 2013 5:46 AM
15 Pursue Endowments from Individuals for Beach Areas May 28, 2013 7:13 PM
16 bike trails to more rec. areas May 24, 2013 5:04 PM
17 start to look at the Punkhorns as a recreational area and develop camping, more
water access, bridal trails and paved bike trails.
May 16, 2013 12:16 PM
18 Emphasis on resident desired use of open areas such as non leash dog access
to Drummer Boy Park
May 16, 2013 9:05 AM
19 Fee for use of off leash dog park at drummer boy.May 16, 2013 4:13 AM
20 Existing taxes should be redirected toward recreational maintenance if possible. May 13, 2013 10:08 AM
21 TEH REST SHOULD BE IN OUR TAX BASE WHAT ARE
FOR EXCEPT FUNDING ALL THE PUBLIC NECESSITIES .PART TIEM
RESIDENTS SHOULDLSO HAVE TO PAY FOR TEH RESOURCES USED BY
ALL TOWN RESIDENTS.OTHERWIE THOSE WHO LEAE A EVERY AUTUMN
DO NOT FEE OR OWN A RESPONSIBILITY FOR EDUCTION OFOUR NEXT
GENERATIONS RESIDENTS ETC ETC ETC E TAXES FOR OTHER THAN
TO FUND PUBLIC PROGRAMS EDUCATION, RECREATION,A
May 12, 2013 6:52 AM
17 of 50
Page 5, Q8. What Town actions do you favor to operate and maintain recreational facilities? (please check all that
apply)
22 Limited access to people with dogs to flats during summer May 11, 2013 2:38 PM
23 Year round trash cans at beaches and parks. More parking at Crosby and
resident preference. Tired of being second class citizen/resident in the summer.
May 10, 2013 6:53 AM
24 We pay year round for the facilities and CAN"T use them during the summer
months.
May 10, 2013 5:33 AM
25 multi use park May 10, 2013 4:19 AM
26 Parking lots and areas should be kept as they are May 8, 2013 6:26 AM
27 Brewster needs a resident only beach May 7, 2013 11:20 AM
18 of 50
19 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
1 punkhorn parklands. mill ponds Jun 5, 2013 7:53 PM
2 Community Gardens, Eddy Sisters Trail, Blueberry Pond plots Jun 5, 2013 7:50 PM
3 Punkhorns, Eddy properties north & south, Museum of Natural History, Stony
Brook Trails
Jun 5, 2013 7:46 PM
4 Paine's Creek Jun 5, 2013 7:39 PM
5 Mill Pond Jun 5, 2013 7:36 PM
6 Herring Run, Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 7:33 PM
7 Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 7:29 PM
8 Punkhorn Parklands, Saint's Landing & Paine's Creek Jun 5, 2013 7:25 PM
9 Nickseron Park, Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 7:21 PM
10 Punkhorn Parklands, Sheep Pond Woodlands Jun 5, 2013 7:18 PM
11 Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 7:12 PM
12 Punkhorn, community garden Jun 5, 2013 7:09 PM
13 Drummer Boy, Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 7:06 PM
14 Bike trail, Nickerson, Eddy properties Jun 5, 2013 7:02 PM
15 ones in my neighborhood Jun 5, 2013 6:55 PM
16 Punkhorn Parklands Jun 5, 2013 6:52 PM
17 Nickerson State Park, Bay Beaches Jun 5, 2013 6:49 PM
18 Town beaches, Ponds, Stony Brook Valley Jun 5, 2013 6:46 PM
19 Punkhorn Parklands, Bakers Pond, Stranahan Jun 5, 2013 6:43 PM
20 Punkhorn, coastal dune between Mant's Landing & Paines Creek Jun 5, 2013 6:40 PM
21 Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 6:36 PM
22 Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 6:33 PM
23 Bay beaches Jun 5, 2013 6:30 PM
24 Punkhorn, used to be herring run until they "flattened" it out and ruined it Jun 5, 2013 6:25 PM
25 punkhorn, Mothers Bog Jun 5, 2013 6:19 PM
26 Captain's Golf Course, Drummer Boy Park, Herring Run,Marshn areas Jun 5, 2013 3:49 PM
27 Wing Island Jun 5, 2013 11:10 AM
20 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
28 NIckerson Park Punkhorn Jun 5, 2013 8:03 AM
29 STONY BROOK HERRING RUN Jun 5, 2013 5:11 AM
30 punkhorn park Jun 4, 2013 6:46 AM
31 Punkhorn (need better trail markers and parking) Drummer Boy Park Jun 3, 2013 2:57 PM
32 wing island Jun 3, 2013 11:12 AM
33 Paines Creek beach, Robbins Hill beach, Crosby Landing beach, Herring Run Jun 3, 2013 10:24 AM
34 ponds Jun 3, 2013 8:22 AM
35 Land protecting open space such as the property on Lower Rd. between Brier
and the area that will be used on Lower to walk to the beach.
Jun 3, 2013 6:16 AM
36 The Punkhorn Jun 3, 2013 5:14 AM
37 Grist Mill Jun 3, 2013 4:58 AM
38 Brewster Museum of Natural History Jun 2, 2013 5:37 PM
39 Punkhorn Jun 1, 2013 9:27 PM
40 Herring Run/Grist Mill Jun 1, 2013 7:45 PM
41 Beaches Jun 1, 2013 9:49 AM
42 I've lived here for 13 years and summered here before that. I barely know them.
And I like to explore my natural environment. I live near the Punkhorn, but it took
me 7 years before I found that. I love Paine's Creek. I also love the walking trails
at the Brewster Museum of Natural History, but I have been harassed for parking
in the lot to walk and not paying and entering the museum. I have been to the
museum, but I like to walk there at least once a month and I certainly do not
need to see the same exhibits over and over once a month.
Jun 1, 2013 5:25 AM
43 Golf course and Nickerson May 31, 2013 6:35 PM
44 the punkhorn May 31, 2013 5:02 PM
45 Punkhorn trails May 31, 2013 4:32 PM
46 Nickerson Campground, Punkhorn, parcels donated by home honors with signs
and who the donor was
May 31, 2013 3:02 PM
47 Herring Run May 31, 2013 2:59 PM
48 herring run May 31, 2013 2:46 PM
49 Punkhorn/Nickerson May 31, 2013 2:09 PM
50 Herring Run, grist mill , Wing Island, Blueberry Pond before Ocean's Edge
destroys it.
May 31, 2013 10:54 AM
21 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
51 Breakwater Beach Robbins Beach May 31, 2013 8:08 AM
52 Punkhorn May 31, 2013 7:23 AM
53 Drummer Boy May 31, 2013 7:02 AM
54 Drummer Boy Park and the Punkhorn May 31, 2013 6:43 AM
55 Drummer Boy Park, Breakwater Beach, Bike Path, Nickerson State Park May 31, 2013 5:44 AM
56 Herring Run, beach areas, bike trail May 31, 2013 5:19 AM
57 drummer boy park without dogs May 31, 2013 5:16 AM
58 Herring run May 31, 2013 4:21 AM
59 Punkhorn area May 31, 2013 4:10 AM
60 Community garden Lower Rd May 31, 2013 3:57 AM
61 stony brook May 31, 2013 3:41 AM
62 Community Gardens;area behind CC Museum of Natural History; Nickerson
Park
May 31, 2013 3:16 AM
63 Ponds, Salt Mill Park May 31, 2013 2:45 AM
64 Marshes and beaches.May 30, 2013 8:35 PM
65 Nickerson Park May 30, 2013 7:42 PM
66 The Beaches but are now restricted for dog walking from 5/1 to 10/1. Why? How
about Memorial Day to Labor day. I hope the town loses the case for Drummer
Boy. To many rules! Not why I moved to the Cape! Maybe Maine might be an
option!
May 30, 2013 7:14 PM
67 Punkhorn May 30, 2013 6:23 PM
68 Museum of Natural History, Punkhorn, Drummer Boy Park May 30, 2013 6:21 PM
69 Punkhorn , Herring Run May 30, 2013 6:10 PM
70 Punkhorn May 30, 2013 6:10 PM
71 New Brewster Cemetery May 30, 2013 6:01 PM
72 Drummer Boy Park May 30, 2013 5:57 PM
73 Beaches May 30, 2013 5:47 PM
74 Punkhorn Parklands, Quivett Marsh May 30, 2013 5:44 PM
75 a separate park for dogs May 30, 2013 5:40 PM
22 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
76 Drummer Park May 30, 2013 5:32 PM
77 Punkhorn May 30, 2013 5:28 PM
78 Punkhorn, Sheep Pond Woodlands May 30, 2013 5:26 PM
79 Nickerson Park, Town beaches May 30, 2013 5:22 PM
80 Herring Run May 30, 2013 5:21 PM
81 Punkhorn, Natural History trail, herring run, oyster flats May 30, 2013 5:20 PM
82 Punkhorn May 30, 2013 5:19 PM
83 Drummer Boy Park, Punkhorn, Mill Site May 30, 2013 5:18 PM
84 Natural Museum of History Nickerson May 30, 2013 5:17 PM
85 Punkhorn, Drummer Boy, Herring Run May 30, 2013 5:14 PM
86 Punkhorn May 30, 2013 5:11 PM
87 Punkhorn Parklands, Mother's Bog May 30, 2013 5:07 PM
88 Nickerson State Park, wings Island, quivet Creek May 30, 2013 5:07 PM
89 Punkhorn May 30, 2013 5:03 PM
90 Punkhorn Parklands May 30, 2013 5:00 PM
91 Herring run.May 30, 2013 4:48 PM
92 Natural History Museum May 30, 2013 4:41 PM
93 Punkhorn May 30, 2013 4:31 PM
94 Mills ponds May 30, 2013 4:28 PM
95 punkhorn May 30, 2013 4:12 PM
96 Nickerson parks May 30, 2013 4:12 PM
97 Punlhorn May 30, 2013 4:09 PM
98 paines creek and sheeps pond/fisherman's landing May 30, 2013 4:06 PM
99 punkhorn May 30, 2013 4:00 PM
100 Beaches, Punkhorn May 30, 2013 3:59 PM
101 Wings iSland May 30, 2013 3:59 PM
102 The Stony Brook Corridor , Punkhorn Parklands, Walkers and Mill Ponds, Paines
Creek and Quivett Creek marshes
May 30, 2013 3:50 PM
23 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
103 Nickerson state park May 30, 2013 3:39 PM
104 punkhorns beaches areas set aside for conservation May 30, 2013 3:37 PM
105 Herring run May 30, 2013 3:32 PM
106 Punkhorns, Long Pond Wing Island, Nickerson State Park May 30, 2013 2:58 PM
107 The Punkhorns were a great acquisition.May 30, 2013 1:56 PM
108 Punkland May 30, 2013 12:39 PM
109 Beaches May 30, 2013 8:43 AM
110 Community Garden May 30, 2013 8:05 AM
111 Wing island May 30, 2013 7:08 AM
112 Herring run May 30, 2013 6:33 AM
113 Herring Run/Stonybrook Gris Mill, Nickerson State Park May 30, 2013 6:22 AM
114 walk behind Museum of Natural History May 30, 2013 5:49 AM
115 Nickerson State Park May 30, 2013 2:08 AM
116 Paine's Creek (pre-culverting) Stony Brook Millsite (BEFORE damming
occurred)
May 29, 2013 7:01 PM
117 Wing island access to beach and trails May 29, 2013 11:20 AM
118 Drummer Boy May 29, 2013 10:11 AM
119 Eddy Field on Lower Road Open spaces along Freeman's Way May 29, 2013 9:23 AM
120 Natural History museum trails May 29, 2013 9:00 AM
121 Nickerson May 29, 2013 6:52 AM
122 Nickerson State Park May 29, 2013 5:20 AM
123 Punkhorns, Paines Creek Herring run and general open spaces that keep vistas
of the marshes and water areas that make Brewster so beautiful and special.
May 29, 2013 4:31 AM
124 John Wing's Island May 28, 2013 7:17 PM
125 Punk horn and beaches May 28, 2013 4:32 PM
126 Punkhorn May 28, 2013 1:41 PM
127 Conservation trail from rte 137 to Sheeps Pond May 28, 2013 12:47 PM
128 punkhorn, mothers bog, hawk's nest May 24, 2013 7:23 PM
24 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
129 ?May 24, 2013 7:19 PM
130 Drummer Boy - without dogs!May 24, 2013 7:16 PM
131 punkhorns May 24, 2013 7:11 PM
132 Nickerson State Park, Punkhorn May 24, 2013 7:08 PM
133 punkhorn, wings island May 24, 2013 6:57 PM
134 Crosby Landing, Punkhorn May 24, 2013 5:05 PM
135 Punkhorn, Herring Run, Wing Island May 24, 2013 5:01 PM
136 Herring Run, Punkhorn May 24, 2013 4:58 PM
137 Punkhorn, Mothers Bog May 24, 2013 4:55 PM
138 Bay beaches, Punkhorn, Herring Run May 24, 2013 4:50 PM
139 punkhorn May 24, 2013 4:46 PM
140 Herring Run, Punkhorn May 24, 2013 4:38 PM
141 Nickerson State Park May 24, 2013 4:34 PM
142 Behind the Natural History Museum (Wings Island)May 24, 2013 4:28 PM
143 Punkhorn and Nickerson Park May 24, 2013 4:23 PM
144 Punkhorn May 24, 2013 1:24 PM
145 Punkhorn Parklands, Mother's Bog May 24, 2013 12:58 PM
146 Drummer Boy when it was available to dogs May 21, 2013 9:17 AM
147 Punkhorn May 18, 2013 5:44 PM
148 ponds, beaches May 18, 2013 2:16 PM
149 The bay and ponds.May 16, 2013 9:53 PM
150 Western Punkhorns, Wing Island, Paines Creek, Sheep's Pond area, Drummer
Boy area.
May 16, 2013 12:19 PM
151 The marshland areas May 16, 2013 9:06 AM
152 Punkhorn May 16, 2013 7:20 AM
153 former Rowley property May 15, 2013 2:21 PM
154 The Punkhorn May 15, 2013 12:40 PM
155 punkhorn Nickerson State Park the extended beach at Crosby Landing May 15, 2013 8:04 AM
25 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
156 The Herring Run May 15, 2013 5:42 AM
157 Grist mill Quietly marsh Paines creek Punkhorn parklands May 14, 2013 5:41 PM
158 Punkhorn May 14, 2013 7:09 AM
159 Punkhorn Sheep Pond Mants Landing Wings Island May 14, 2013 6:51 AM
160 None May 13, 2013 10:08 AM
161 Drummer Boy Park, Grist Mill Site.May 12, 2013 1:30 PM
162 THE ONE I AM IN AT THE MOMENT May 12, 2013 6:55 AM
163 Natural Museum area May 11, 2013 7:26 AM
164 Punkhorn May 10, 2013 8:00 PM
165 Dummer Boy, Upper Mill Pond access by Punkhorn, Nickerson May 10, 2013 6:55 AM
166 Love all the little areas you find around Brewster marked "conservation". The
Punk Horn is under used do to poor promotion of the area and a poor parking
space and limited boat ramp space.
May 10, 2013 5:36 AM
167 Wing island May 9, 2013 6:29 PM
168 Greenland pond, museum of natural history May 9, 2013 5:49 PM
169 Punkhorn forest, Wing Island May 9, 2013 12:29 PM
170 Punkhorn May 9, 2013 11:49 AM
171 NSP, beaches May 9, 2013 11:48 AM
172 Drummer Boy (without dogs) John/Kristi Hay Trail Trails at Museum of Natural
History
May 9, 2013 10:25 AM
173 Punkhorn CCMNH South Trail May 9, 2013 7:53 AM
174 Punkhorn May 9, 2013 6:37 AM
175 Punkhorn May 9, 2013 6:36 AM
176 Punkhorn May 9, 2013 5:54 AM
177 Nickerson State Park, Punkhorn Parklands, Sheep Pond (but needs better
parking), Crosby Beach
May 9, 2013 5:12 AM
178 Punkhorn May 9, 2013 3:45 AM
179 Punkhorn May 8, 2013 7:34 PM
180 Drummer Boy Park May 8, 2013 5:53 PM
26 of 50
Page 6, Q9. What are your favorite conservation areas in Brewster?
181 Punk horn ( but not during hunting season)May 8, 2013 5:22 PM
182 The Eddy sisters farm, Mants landing, Drummer Boy Park (without dogs), Trails
near the Natural History Museum
May 8, 2013 1:49 PM
183 Nickerson May 8, 2013 8:07 AM
184 Drummer Boy Park & Punkhorn May 8, 2013 7:26 AM
185 The pukhorn parkland May 8, 2013 7:03 AM
186 Spruce Hill - it is not that well known and I hope we keep it that way! Nickerson
SP, and the Punkhorn because it's been kept wild.
May 8, 2013 6:29 AM
187 Punkhorn Parklands May 7, 2013 4:07 PM
188 Wing Island Trails May 7, 2013 12:29 PM
189 Paines Creek, Punkhorns May 7, 2013 11:21 AM
190 Nickerson State Park May 7, 2013 9:45 AM
27 of 50
28 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
1 beaches Jun 5, 2013 7:53 PM
2 Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 7:50 PM
3 Paine's Creek Beach Jun 5, 2013 7:42 PM
4 None Jun 5, 2013 7:39 PM
5 Beaches Jun 5, 2013 7:33 PM
6 Upper Mill Pond Jun 5, 2013 7:29 PM
7 Punkhorn Parklands, Saint's Landing & Paine's Creek Jun 5, 2013 7:25 PM
8 swimming in ponds/bay Jun 5, 2013 7:21 PM
9 beaches Jun 5, 2013 7:18 PM
10 Beaches Jun 5, 2013 7:12 PM
11 beaches, Drummer Boy Park Jun 5, 2013 7:09 PM
12 Crosby Landing, Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 7:06 PM
13 bike trail, Natural History Museum Jun 5, 2013 7:02 PM
14 tennis courts Jun 5, 2013 6:55 PM
15 Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 6:52 PM
16 Nickerson State Park, Bay beaches Jun 5, 2013 6:49 PM
17 Cape Cod Museum of Natural History Jun 5, 2013 6:43 PM
18 beaches Jun 5, 2013 6:36 PM
19 Freemans field Jun 5, 2013 6:30 PM
20 bike path. freemans way fields Jun 5, 2013 6:25 PM
21 Paines Creek Beach, Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 6:19 PM
22 Captain's Golf Course, CCRT bike and walking path, Drummer Boy park, Bay
beaches
Jun 5, 2013 3:49 PM
23 golf course and beaches Jun 5, 2013 1:28 PM
24 Drummer Boy Park before the ban Jun 5, 2013 11:10 AM
25 Golf Hiking Beaches Jun 5, 2013 8:03 AM
26 GOLF, WALKING TRAILS, BIKE TRAIL Jun 5, 2013 5:11 AM
27 Captains Golf Course Nickerson Park Jun 4, 2013 6:12 PM
29 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
28 captains golf course Jun 4, 2013 6:46 AM
29 Beaches and golf course Jun 4, 2013 5:13 AM
30 Nickerson State Park Town Beaches Drummer Boy Park Jun 3, 2013 2:57 PM
31 drummer boy park WITHOUT dogs Jun 3, 2013 11:12 AM
32 Town Hall fields, Gage's field, Drummer Boy park, Nickerson park Jun 3, 2013 10:24 AM
33 golf, ponds Jun 3, 2013 8:22 AM
34 The golf course is a major asset for the town and the beaches. That's why we
moved to Brewster.
Jun 3, 2013 6:16 AM
35 The Captains golf course and all the beaches Jun 3, 2013 5:14 AM
36 Captains golf course Jun 3, 2013 4:58 AM
37 Captain's Golf Course Jun 2, 2013 5:37 PM
38 Captains Golf Course Jun 1, 2013 9:27 PM
39 Captains Golf Course- The reason we moved to Brewster Jun 1, 2013 7:45 PM
40 Captains Golf Course Jun 1, 2013 4:16 PM
41 Golf course Jun 1, 2013 9:49 AM
42 Captains Golf Jun 1, 2013 9:04 AM
43 I use the bike path regularly to run and occasionally to bike. I appreciate the mile
markers.
Jun 1, 2013 5:25 AM
44 Beaches- Paine's Creek Jun 1, 2013 5:04 AM
45 Beaches May 31, 2013 6:35 PM
46 the golf course and the tennis courts, which were very well done....the best in the
area!
May 31, 2013 5:02 PM
47 The Captains Golf Courses May 31, 2013 4:32 PM
48 My kids are older now, but I loved the baseball fields..soccer fields,May 31, 2013 3:02 PM
49 Captains Golf Course Beaches May 31, 2013 2:59 PM
50 captains May 31, 2013 2:46 PM
51 Captains Golf Course, beaches, ponds May 31, 2013 2:09 PM
52 Golf course, Crosby Beach...really all beaches, bike trail May 31, 2013 12:00 PM
53 Captains golf course as it is why we moved to Brewster ,, The new tennis courts May 31, 2013 10:54 AM
30 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
, Brewster beaches, Bike trail
54 Captains Golf May 31, 2013 10:08 AM
55 The Captain's Golf Course, Bike Trails, Beaches, Nickerson State Park, Historic
Society
May 31, 2013 8:11 AM
56 Captains Golf Courses May 31, 2013 8:08 AM
57 Captains golf course May 31, 2013 7:24 AM
58 Golf Course May 31, 2013 7:23 AM
59 Captains' Golf Course!!!May 31, 2013 7:02 AM
60 The Captains Golf Course and the bay beaches May 31, 2013 6:43 AM
61 Captains Golf Course May 31, 2013 5:44 AM
62 golf course, Underpass Road playgroud, Drummer Boy Park May 31, 2013 5:19 AM
63 captains golf course May 31, 2013 5:16 AM
64 Captains Golf Course May 31, 2013 5:05 AM
65 Captains May 31, 2013 4:21 AM
66 Captains May 31, 2013 4:15 AM
67 Captains golf course. We moved here because of the two courses.May 31, 2013 4:10 AM
68 Golf May 31, 2013 3:57 AM
69 golf course May 31, 2013 3:41 AM
70 Captain's Golf; Sheep's Pond/Fisherman's landing Beach; Bike Trail; Ellis and
Linnell Beaches
May 31, 2013 3:16 AM
71 Beaches, Captains Golf Course May 31, 2013 2:45 AM
72 captains golf course May 30, 2013 8:53 PM
73 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 8:35 PM
74 tennis courts May 30, 2013 7:42 PM
75 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 7:33 PM
76 Drummer Boy Park which is now restricted. Nobody is there! Except the birds
doing there their droppings! We need some dog friendly areas! Thompson field
in Harwich is a great example! Tourist are not going to come to Brewster
because we are so unfriendly with all our rules. Think about it!
May 30, 2013 7:14 PM
77 Drummer Park May 30, 2013 6:23 PM
31 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
78 Captains Golf Courses, Breakwater Beach, driving range on Freemans way May 30, 2013 6:21 PM
79 Drummer Boy, Paines Creek Beach May 30, 2013 6:10 PM
80 Captains Golf Course Nickerson Park May 30, 2013 6:10 PM
81 Paines Creek Beach May 30, 2013 6:01 PM
82 Beaches/ golf course May 30, 2013 5:58 PM
83 Cape Baseball May 30, 2013 5:57 PM
84 Golf Courses May 30, 2013 5:47 PM
85 Drummer Boy Park May 30, 2013 5:44 PM
86 fishing May 30, 2013 5:40 PM
87 Nickerson Park May 30, 2013 5:28 PM
88 Drummer Boy, beaches, Herring Run May 30, 2013 5:26 PM
89 Tennis courts May 30, 2013 5:22 PM
90 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 5:21 PM
91 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 5:20 PM
92 Tennis Courts May 30, 2013 5:19 PM
93 beaches long pond May 30, 2013 5:17 PM
94 Where?May 30, 2013 5:14 PM
95 N/A - don't use May 30, 2013 5:11 PM
96 Beaches, Drummer Boy May 30, 2013 5:07 PM
97 Captains golf course, Cape Cod Rail trail May 30, 2013 5:07 PM
98 Beaches May 30, 2013 5:03 PM
99 Drummer Boy Park without dogs May 30, 2013 5:00 PM
100 Beaches May 30, 2013 4:48 PM
101 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 4:41 PM
102 Captains Course May 30, 2013 4:31 PM
103 GOlf, moved here for that. As the kids grew we have used a variety of rec areas
around town and that has been a plus as a family
May 30, 2013 4:28 PM
104 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 4:17 PM
32 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
105 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 4:15 PM
106 captains golf courses May 30, 2013 4:15 PM
107 Captains Golf course May 30, 2013 4:12 PM
108 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 4:12 PM
109 Golf, Drummer Boy Park, Bike Trails; and beaches May 30, 2013 4:09 PM
110 Captains May 30, 2013 4:06 PM
111 GOLF - love the Captains and chose brewster because of golf course May 30, 2013 4:06 PM
112 Captain's Golf Courses May 30, 2013 4:00 PM
113 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 3:59 PM
114 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 3:59 PM
115 Access to the intertidal flats at Town landings May 30, 2013 3:50 PM
116 The captains golf course May 30, 2013 3:39 PM
117 Captains golf course bike trails beaches conservation areas to walk May 30, 2013 3:37 PM
118 Captains golf course May 30, 2013 3:32 PM
119 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 3:09 PM
120 Captains Golf, Freemans Way Athletic Fields, Stony Brook Playground,
Drummerboy
May 30, 2013 2:58 PM
121 Captains Golf Course - it's why I bought a house in Brewster.May 30, 2013 1:56 PM
122 Captains Golf Course and Drummer Boy Park and Paines Creek Beach May 30, 2013 12:39 PM
123 Golf course May 30, 2013 8:43 AM
124 Captains Golf Course May 30, 2013 8:05 AM
125 Drummer boy park May 30, 2013 7:08 AM
126 Golf Course May 30, 2013 6:33 AM
127 Drummer Boy Park, Sheep Pond, Ellis Landing, Paines Creek, Cape Cod
Museum of Natural History
May 30, 2013 6:22 AM
128 Bike trail May 30, 2013 5:49 AM
129 The Captains' Golf Course May 30, 2013 2:08 AM
130 Nickerson state park because I can bring my dog there.May 29, 2013 11:46 AM
33 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
131 Golf and beaches May 29, 2013 11:20 AM
132 Captains Golf Courses May 29, 2013 10:11 AM
133 golf course May 29, 2013 10:04 AM
134 Freeman's Fields Tennis courts at Stony Brook Elementary May 29, 2013 9:23 AM
135 Drummer boy park playground May 29, 2013 9:00 AM
136 Herring Run, Drummer Boy Park, Bike Path, and the Beaches May 29, 2013 7:30 AM
137 Beaches, but very limited parking May 29, 2013 6:52 AM
138 The golf courses, excellent condition, the best public course on the Cape. May 29, 2013 5:48 AM
139 Bike Path May 29, 2013 5:20 AM
140 Golf course, Drummer Boy Park (without dogs!), bike path, Breakwater Beach
and Sheep's Pond. I no longer play tennis, but think that new facility is an
excellent addition to the town's recreational offerings.
May 29, 2013 4:31 AM
141 Stony Brook Field for the Brewster Whitecaps, Cape Cod Baseball League;
Breakwater Beach; Robbins Hill (Mant's Landing); Stony Brook Mill Site;
Captains Golf Course; Cape Cod Rail Trail
May 28, 2013 7:17 PM
142 Beaches May 28, 2013 4:32 PM
143 Captains Golf Course May 28, 2013 1:41 PM
144 Captains golf course Wing island trail May 28, 2013 12:47 PM
145 Punkhorn and Nickerson State Park May 25, 2013 10:32 AM
146 drummer boy without dogs May 24, 2013 7:23 PM
147 ?May 24, 2013 7:19 PM
148 Beaches - without dogs!May 24, 2013 7:16 PM
149 Drummer Boy May 24, 2013 7:11 PM
150 golf, tennis, ball park May 24, 2013 7:08 PM
151 beaches May 24, 2013 6:57 PM
152 Nickerson State Park May 24, 2013 5:05 PM
153 Bay Beaches May 24, 2013 5:01 PM
154 Tennis Courts May 24, 2013 4:58 PM
155 Paines Creek Beach, Wing Island May 24, 2013 4:55 PM
34 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
156 Bay beaches, Bike trail May 24, 2013 4:50 PM
157 herring run May 24, 2013 4:46 PM
158 Tennis Courts May 24, 2013 4:38 PM
159 Paines Creek Beach May 24, 2013 4:34 PM
160 Bike trails May 24, 2013 4:28 PM
161 Punkhorn and Nickerson May 24, 2013 4:23 PM
162 Beaches May 24, 2013 1:24 PM
163 Tennis Courts May 24, 2013 12:58 PM
164 Nickerson State Park, trail behind Historical Society, Mill Pond May 21, 2013 9:17 AM
165 Hiking trails May 18, 2013 5:44 PM
166 ponds, beaches May 18, 2013 2:16 PM
167 Freeman's Field May 16, 2013 9:53 PM
168 Trails in the Punkhorn, Wing Island and the newer trails popping up around town.
Paines Creek and the Wing Island areas.
May 16, 2013 12:19 PM
169 Drummer Boy Park when dogs are allowed without leash.May 16, 2013 9:06 AM
170 Drummer Boy Park May 16, 2013 7:20 AM
171 Sheep Pond May 15, 2013 2:21 PM
172 Saints Landing May 15, 2013 12:40 PM
173 drummer boy park - no dogs, please May 15, 2013 8:04 AM
174 Drummer Boy Park May 15, 2013 5:42 AM
175 Rail trail Town beaches May 14, 2013 5:41 PM
176 Crosby Landing beach May 14, 2013 7:22 AM
177 Captains May 14, 2013 7:09 AM
178 Captains Golf Course May 14, 2013 6:54 AM
179 beach at long pond May 14, 2013 6:51 AM
180 Beaches, bike paths May 13, 2013 10:08 AM
181 Long Pond Beach, White Caps Field May 12, 2013 1:30 PM
182 AS ABOVE BUT BEACH WALKING AN WALKIN GON THE TRAILS ARE May 12, 2013 6:55 AM
35 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
PROBABLY MOST USED NO UNLEASHED DOGS PLEASE TAKE CARE OF
PEOPLE FIRST ESP HANDICAPPED ACCESS SEEMS PARTICULARLY
LACKING AT BEACHES ETC
183 None May 11, 2013 7:26 AM
184 Rail-trail May 10, 2013 8:00 PM
185 Crosby Beach, Upper Mill Pond May 10, 2013 6:55 AM
186 Bay Beaches, however, I feel that they are not well maintained by the DPW.
There is more to property up keep in Brewster than just mowing lawns and the
beaches are perfect example of no up keep during the summer.
May 10, 2013 5:36 AM
187 Wish we had a skate park May 9, 2013 6:29 PM
188 besides the baseball fields, there are none, especially for the teenagers May 9, 2013 5:49 PM
189 Drummer Boy Park May 9, 2013 12:29 PM
190 Bike trail May 9, 2013 11:49 AM
191 none May 9, 2013 11:48 AM
192 Captains Golf Courses May 9, 2013 10:25 AM
193 bike path hiking groups that go through woods May 9, 2013 7:53 AM
194 beaches May 9, 2013 6:37 AM
195 Punkhorn, Linnell Landing May 9, 2013 6:36 AM
196 Beaches May 9, 2013 5:54 AM
197 Bike paths - railtrail and NSP, hiking and riding trails May 9, 2013 5:12 AM
198 Drummer Boy playground May 9, 2013 3:45 AM
199 Golf Courses May 8, 2013 7:34 PM
200 Golf courses May 8, 2013 5:53 PM
201 None at this moment, but when Brewster gets a dedicated "dog" park it will be
that.
May 8, 2013 5:22 PM
202 Nickerson State Park, Drummer Boy Park (without dogs)May 8, 2013 1:49 PM
203 Bike path May 8, 2013 8:07 AM
204 Bike trails & Beaches May 8, 2013 7:26 AM
205 wish we had a community center for the young and old May 8, 2013 7:03 AM
206 Drummer Boy Park because it offers an open habitat for the bluebirds, etc. May 8, 2013 6:29 AM
36 of 50
Page 6, Q10. What are your favorite recreational facilities in Brewster?
207 beaches; bike/walking trail May 8, 2013 4:43 AM
208 Captains Golf Courses May 7, 2013 4:07 PM
209 bike path May 7, 2013 12:29 PM
210 Drummer Boy Playground without dogs May 7, 2013 11:21 AM
211 The beaches/landings May 7, 2013 9:45 AM
37 of 50
38 of 50
Page 7, Q13. How do you receive news/information concerning open space and recreation resources? (please
check one for each row)
1 Didn't know we had twitter or facebook pages Jun 5, 2013 7:33 PM
2 Town Meeting Articles Jun 5, 2013 7:26 PM
3 Town of Brewster Jun 5, 2013 7:21 PM
4 Brewster FLATS website Jun 5, 2013 6:56 PM
5 BCT Jun 5, 2013 6:34 PM
6 BAPR Jun 4, 2013 6:13 PM
7 Conservation Commission communications Jun 3, 2013 6:18 AM
8 Brewster conservation Trust May 31, 2013 2:12 PM
9 Brewster Men's Club, Peter Johnson May 31, 2013 5:47 AM
10 Speakers at Brewster Men's Club luncheons May 30, 2013 6:23 PM
11 Brewster Conservation trust publications May 30, 2013 3:54 PM
12 Goggle or similar search engine, Chamber of Commerce May 30, 2013 3:01 PM
13 Brewster Cons. Trust Newsletter May 30, 2013 1:58 PM
14 Wicked local news May 30, 2013 7:09 AM
15 I don't know where to go to get information May 30, 2013 5:50 AM
16 Is there a Facebook presence for this?May 29, 2013 4:33 AM
17 Finance Committee Hearings; Town Meeting May 28, 2013 7:19 PM
18 Familiarity with the towm May 28, 2013 4:33 PM
19 Friend May 24, 2013 7:16 PM
20 TV May 24, 2013 4:47 PM
21 channel 18 May 24, 2013 4:35 PM
22 Local cable access channel May 24, 2013 12:59 PM
23 friends May 18, 2013 2:17 PM
24 land trust May 16, 2013 9:55 PM
25 I will now join Brewster's site on facebook.May 15, 2013 8:06 AM
26 Town meeting May 14, 2013 7:23 AM
27 brewster conservation trust newsletter May 14, 2013 6:52 AM
39 of 50
Page 7, Q13. How do you receive news/information concerning open space and recreation resources? (please
check one for each row)
28 online news May 9, 2013 11:48 AM
29 Channel 18 May 8, 2013 5:23 PM
30 Brewster Conservation Trust Website May 8, 2013 6:31 AM
40 of 50
41 of 50
Page 8, Q14. In planning for future open space and recreation, how important are the following? (please check
one for each row)
1 not Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 7:54 PM
2 multiple locations Jun 5, 2013 7:43 PM
3 not Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 7:19 PM
4 Sheep Pond Woodlands & trails Jun 5, 2013 7:10 PM
5 Drummer Boy and beaches Jun 5, 2013 7:03 PM
6 roads Jun 5, 2013 6:57 PM
7 as long as it is not at Drummer Bor or on conservation lands Jun 5, 2013 6:53 PM
8 Not Drummer Boy!!!!Jun 5, 2013 6:38 PM
9 Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 6:35 PM
10 not in passive recreation areas......Jun 5, 2013 6:27 PM
11 not Drummer Boy Jun 5, 2013 6:20 PM
12 farmer's market space Jun 1, 2013 5:28 AM
13 We need to give the dogs through atleast May May 31, 2013 3:07 PM
14 Dog Park....enough with the bitterness, just figure it out May 31, 2013 12:02 PM
15 Dog Parks should be privately funded!May 31, 2013 5:50 AM
16 V issue needs to be settled soon. I am disgusted with Brewster and how they
have handled this issue. Dogs need space too.
May 31, 2013 4:13 AM
17 Use Brewster Road parcel May 30, 2013 6:12 PM
18 just not at Drummer Boy May 30, 2013 5:45 PM
19 Park on Route 6A for dogs May 30, 2013 5:41 PM
20 Drummer Boy, not open country May 30, 2013 5:15 PM
21 Not at Drummer Boy May 30, 2013 5:01 PM
22 Brewster Road May 30, 2013 12:46 PM
23 We need a place for dogs to run -- or we may be cultivating dangerous dogs. May 30, 2013 5:52 AM
24 People who want a dog park should purchase their own land for a dog park. Pet
owners are alone, responsible for the pets they choose to have. Protected open
space should remain protected for wildlife and wildlife habitat.
May 29, 2013 7:13 PM
25 Specifically need dog park with proper fencing,etc May 29, 2013 6:55 AM
42 of 50
Page 8, Q14. In planning for future open space and recreation, how important are the following? (please check
one for each row)
26 Many of my neutral comments mean don't need to expand, but please maintain
current quality of these assets. I do think we need more recreational options for
our teenage population since we don't have a youth or community center.
May 29, 2013 4:41 AM
27 Horseshoes; Bocci; Shuffleboard; Volleyball May 28, 2013 7:21 PM
28 Important for town to set priorities among these uses May 28, 2013 4:35 PM
29 as long as it is not at the Drummer Boy May 24, 2013 7:24 PM
30 no dog walking on town land May 24, 2013 7:05 PM
31 Drummer Boy, Beachesm Flats, Punkhorn for dogs May 24, 2013 5:08 PM
32 not Drummer Boy May 24, 2013 5:02 PM
33 Definitely NOT for Drummer Boy May 24, 2013 4:59 PM
34 Just not at the Drummer Boy!!May 24, 2013 4:48 PM
35 No dogs at Drummer Boy!!!!!!May 24, 2013 4:42 PM
36 appropriate dog exercise areas, similar to other towns May 21, 2013 9:20 AM
37 Paved bike trails May 16, 2013 12:21 PM
38 SWIMMING POOL ACCESS REGULARLY SCHEDULED 2-3 X PER WEK FOR
EL DERLY & HANDICAPPED
May 12, 2013 7:00 AM
43 of 50
Page 9, Q15. Which of the following best describes you? (please check one)
1 non-resident golfer Jun 2, 2013 5:41 PM
2 Plan to move full time within two years May 31, 2013 12:04 PM
3 Part-time, year-round May 31, 2013 11:06 AM
4 Eastham Resident May 31, 2013 10:11 AM
5 Property owner (never rented out)May 31, 2013 7:07 AM
6 ?May 30, 2013 5:42 PM
7 for 67 years May 30, 2013 4:57 PM
8 Former Brewster resident, Orleans resident May 30, 2013 4:20 PM
9 golf course non-resident player May 29, 2013 10:06 AM
10 Town employee but not a resident May 29, 2013 7:32 AM
11 Brewster 60-70 % residents May 14, 2013 7:25 AM
12 Brewster employee, non-resident May 14, 2013 6:57 AM
13 MEMBER OF VMRC &/TICK BORNE DISEASE COMMISSION May 12, 2013 7:07 AM
14 Town Employee May 9, 2013 11:52 AM
15 town employee May 9, 2013 5:22 AM
44 of 50
45 of 50
Page 9, Q16. Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey here.
1 Brewster Conservation Trust is a community treasure!!!Jun 5, 2013 7:52 PM
2 Conservation doing a good job!Jun 5, 2013 7:19 PM
3 Brewster's open spaces are a valuable asset for residents and visitors alike. Jun 5, 2013 7:14 PM
4 The Conservation Trust and Town Government work well together. Not true
everywhere else on the Cape.
Jun 5, 2013 7:10 PM
5 Keep up the good work!Jun 5, 2013 7:07 PM
6 Need more info on sites for parks, playgrounds, picnic areas Jun 5, 2013 7:04 PM
7 in re information on areas - you have to look for it if you are interested Jun 5, 2013 6:58 PM
8 There are some very questionable interpretations of active and passive
recreation areas. I have been disappointed with the process by which
conservation land is the town of Brewster has been managed recently (i.e. the
Herring Run reconstruction, Drummer Boy Park issue, Brewster Road Dog Park,
Blueberry Pond).
Jun 5, 2013 6:29 PM
9 Stick to the basics for the majority of residents: sport facilities - soccer, baseball,
golf, etc. beaches hiking biking
Jun 5, 2013 1:38 PM
10 We chose to purchase a house in Brewster, because of The Captains Golf
Course.
Jun 4, 2013 6:16 PM
11 We used to have a house in Chatham, but moved to Brewster because we like
the community more and we love the Captains Golf Course.
Jun 4, 2013 5:24 PM
12 Bathroom facilities at beaches & rinse off shower would be good. Also maintain
that stickers are being utilized in summer when needed for fairness. Build a dog
park so no dogs running around public parks like Drummer Boy.
Jun 3, 2013 10:33 AM
13 less regulations we are all neighbors we can share Jun 3, 2013 8:24 AM
14 There should be private funds and/or foundations that assist in supporting these
endeavors. Taxes are high enough, particularly for many residents who are
retired. The conservation commission is doing a wonderful job protecting our
open space with private funds.
Jun 3, 2013 6:22 AM
15 It would be nice to have a downtown center Jun 3, 2013 5:01 AM
16 Purchased in Brewster for the Captains Golf Course Jun 1, 2013 9:30 PM
17 The reason we purchased a home for 6 months of the year is solely for The
Captains Golf Course
Jun 1, 2013 7:50 PM
18 Thank you for this survey.Jun 1, 2013 5:29 AM
19 Captains Golf Course is unsurpassed in its value. People move here, summer
here, wed here, and visit here because of it. We moved to Brewster specifically.It
keeps property values high and is a big draw for new retirees.Support it 100% !
May 31, 2013 11:04 AM
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Page 9, Q16. Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey here.
20 I'm retired & I play Golf and like to walk the bike trail in Winter.May 31, 2013 5:53 AM
21 need to keep golf course top-notch. It's why I'm here.May 31, 2013 5:18 AM
22 Protect the golf course and get a dog park. I saw an elderly man walking his dog
in the woods. He was having difficulty walking on rough ground but wanted his
dog to get exercise. Something needs to be done before elderly person gets
hurt.
May 31, 2013 4:16 AM
23 What could be more important than the nurturing of the land we live on?May 31, 2013 4:03 AM
24 maintain the character/balance of the town - history vs. dveleopment; taffic
patterns vs. walking; shopping vs. convenience
May 31, 2013 3:22 AM
25 Captains Golf Course is extremely important to the town. Many people came to
Brewster to live because of the Captains Golf Course.
May 30, 2013 8:40 PM
26 Brewster has great fresh water resources, with limited access. You are doing a
very good job in conserving lands in town
May 30, 2013 6:27 PM
27 Brewster has gone overboard on environmental & conservation issues. Every
spring mud-hole is a "vernal spring". Every unsaleable lot of scrub oaks, briars &
poison ivy has been a target of acquisition by the buyer of last resort (and poor
judgement)! That is the Brewster tax payer. Enough! I say. Time to sell these
properties, including the golf course, to private individuals for development. More
homes & businesses mean more tax revenue. The Environmentalists in Brewster
have taken way, way too much property off the tax roles. Give us overburdened
taxpayers a break & SELL Not Buy!!!
May 30, 2013 6:06 PM
28 Open Space & Recreation is doing a great job!May 30, 2013 5:42 PM
29 When planning to move to the Cape serval things were important. Access to
beaches Captains Golf Course and no large shopping areas.
May 30, 2013 5:25 PM
30 Open space and recreation should be primarily for resident taxpayers May 30, 2013 5:24 PM
31 Paine's Creek is a child's delight, but no parking May 30, 2013 5:16 PM
32 being able to play golf and tennis in public courses and courts is key May 30, 2013 4:07 PM
33 The golf course and Bay Beaches are Brewsters biggest assets and should be a
priority. We should have a dog park or be allowed to continue at drummer boy
May 30, 2013 3:42 PM
34 Moved to Brewster for golf andbiking and water activities May 30, 2013 3:35 PM
35 Brewster doesn't need lighted outdoor athletic facilities - there's too much light at
night now.
May 30, 2013 2:07 PM
36 Golf course is a valuable asset to the Town but that is not well understood. We
moved to Brewster for the golf facility
May 30, 2013 6:38 AM
37 In the dog park conversation we must consider those people who do not have
the physical ability to walk their dog an hour a day. Many dogs need physical
activity to stay mentally healthy. Dogs who never have a chance to run can
May 30, 2013 5:53 AM
47 of 50
Page 9, Q16. Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey here.
become dangerous to others. We need some area for dogs to be off leash and
run.
38 Need of person checking parking stickers at the town beaches and higher fines
for those who don't have stickers.
May 30, 2013 2:14 AM
39 We need a park specifically for dogs and their owners!!!May 29, 2013 11:49 AM
40 DOG PARK NEEDED May 29, 2013 10:15 AM
41 Long Pond boat ramp & trailor parking needs improvements. Better trash
recepticle areas at Freeman's Fields & Town Hall field. Restrict chemical
treatment of lawn area at Stony Brook baseball field.
May 29, 2013 9:28 AM
42 I feel this town needs more recreational things geared toward our children in the
community. Where do they go to hang out with there friends? We wonder why
our youth is turning to drugs and drinking, give them an alternative, a safe place
to go and hang out! A recreation center would be wonderful!
May 29, 2013 6:51 AM
43 Priorities should always be for public safety, i.e. Police, Fire, Rescue.Education
should be secondary. Infrastructure maintenance and capital repairs should be
next. OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION ARE NOT TOP PRIORITY
ESSENTIAL SERVICES THAT NEED TO BE SUPPORTED BY INCREASED
REAL ESTATE PROPERTY TAX BURDENS AND COMMUNITY
PRESERVATION FUNDS. MORE MONIES SHOULD BE ASSIGNED TO
AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND BEACH ACQUISITIONS. THE TOWN HAS
GONE OVERBOARD ON REMOVING PRIME TAXABLE LANDS FROM THE
REAL ESTATE PROPERTY TAX ROLLS THAT COULD NOT HAVE BEEN
EASILY DEVELOPED GIVEN ZONING AND
CONSERVATION?ENVIRONMENTAL AND BOARD OF HEALTH EXISTING
REGULATIONS> WE HAVE WASTED VALUABLE FUNDS ON POOR AND
FOOLISH LAND ACQUISITIONS< SPENDING MONIES THAT COULD AND
SHOULD HAVE BEEN DEDICATED TO BETTER USES. THIS LACK OF
ACCOUNTABILITY HAS RESULTED IN ADDED STAFF TO AN
UNNECESSARY NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT WITH AN
EVERGROWING STAFF SPOENDING NEEDLESSLY AND ACQUIRING
LUDICROUS AMOUNTS OF EQUIPMENT FOR A DESIRED PURPOSE OF A
SELECT VOCAL FEW WHO ARE BUILDING MONUMENTS TO THEMSELVES
AT THE UNNECESSARY PAS ON COST TO OUR HEIR AND ASSIGNEES. IT
IS WASTE OF THE HIGHEST ORDER.
May 28, 2013 7:31 PM
44 Thanks for all this work.May 28, 2013 4:36 PM
45 it's way too long May 28, 2013 4:34 PM
46 We moved here for the golf course May 28, 2013 12:51 PM
47 we need trail maps and maps for rec and conservation areas May 24, 2013 7:25 PM
48 Need maps of conservation/rec areas. What about taking care, maintaining
current cons. areas. Cleaning up underbrush. Areas that allow dogs - on & off
leash very important to me. Mountain bike trails in NSP are some of my favorite
outdoor spots in Brewster.
May 24, 2013 5:10 PM
48 of 50
Page 9, Q16. Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey here.
49 Get the dog park done!May 24, 2013 4:56 PM
50 I feel the area proposed by Mr. Johnson (the Arthur Conservation parcel) is ideal
fro dogs. In this town it seems as if dogs have more rights than humans!!!!!!
May 24, 2013 4:43 PM
51 I am very disappointed that you can't find any room for a dog park. I intend to
move away from here as soon as I am able. I am not happy about how the town
is run. And I considered this my home, but it is not friendly towards me and this
makes me feel very sad.
May 24, 2013 4:31 PM
52 Get going on the Arthur parcel to establish a dog park area May 24, 2013 1:00 PM
53 It is extremely important for the town to protect wildlife habitat areas. Clear
cutting of woodland for the cemetery enlargement was unconscionable. Protect
our trees. Birds and other wildlife are disappearing at an alarming rate. I have
lived in Brewster over 30 years and it seems the conservation efforts have been
extremely uneven. Favortism seems to prevail.
May 21, 2013 9:23 AM
54 The absence of willingness to SHARE Drummer Boy Park, in a way that would
be FAIR, and would SPARE extra expense is shameful !
May 18, 2013 2:25 PM
55 Keep buying Open Space and start to make these parcels into real parks, with
services and facilities.
May 16, 2013 12:22 PM
56 The ban on dogs at Drummer Boy park has been a hugely negative event not
just for pet owners but for the community at large. Drummer Boy park enabled a
easy open environment for residents to gather and encouraged a sense of
familiarity among all Brewster's citizens. Now beyond the occasional arts and
crafts weekends Drummer Boy park does not receive anything like the kind of
activity that it was once known for. Further the method used to enact the ban
raised questions as to whether or not the town valued it's residents input and
were responsive to resident's concerns.
May 16, 2013 9:14 AM
57 Currently a selectman in Brewster May 15, 2013 12:42 PM
58 The town is important to me and when we retire we will live here full time. May 14, 2013 5:44 PM
59 Brewster clearly hates dogs. This saddens me as we contemplate which town to
build our retirement home in
May 14, 2013 7:25 AM
60 More town conservation and recreation areas need to be made wheelchair
accessible.
May 12, 2013 1:35 PM
61 HAVE NOT READ ANYTHING RE LACK OF GAMES PARKS BUT KIDS DO
NEED THE PROPER SAFE PLACES..ALSO NEED TO CONTINUOUSLY
PROVIDE BETTER INFO ON TICK ISSUES IT IS A GROWING ISSUES AND
VISITORS NEED THE PROPER INFO.? WHETHER PUBIC SPACES SHOULD
BE TREATED? IT MAY BE NECESSARY AS INDICATIONS OF INCREASED
BABESIOSIS, LYME BEING FOUND IN TICKS AND ON SONG BIRDS ETC
ETC ETC .HUMANS DO NOT ALWAYS FIND THEM & NOT UNTIL THEY ARE
REALLY ILL DO THEY SEEK HEALTH CARE.
May 12, 2013 7:07 AM
62 consolidated community recreational area and facilities are needed to make this May 11, 2013 7:34 AM
49 of 50
Page 9, Q16. Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey here.
town attractive to young and old. Consolidated, centralized recreational
opportunities would make Brewster a desirable and attractive place to live. I feel
the lack of population growth in Brewster is affected by lack of modern updated
recreational opportunities.
63 Would like to see increased boat storage area at Upper Mill Pond landing along
with increased parking at the landing. Use Punkhorn land for space.
May 10, 2013 7:00 AM
64 Open areas are very important to Brewster, but we need to be able to use these
areas for walking, trail running and dog walking.
May 10, 2013 5:41 AM
65 Embrace the youth. Especially the teenagers. These young people are our
immediate future. Do you really know them? Show them your trying.
May 9, 2013 6:35 PM
66 The town of Brewster desperately needs to offer more options for recreation for
the teenage children. I hear them all say that there is nothing in this town for
them to do.
May 9, 2013 5:53 PM
67 Thanks for doing this survey! Please mark our trails better and let us know where
the heck they are!
May 9, 2013 10:28 AM
68 Easy access to recreation areas. Also better beach facilities. Porta potties
should be available from May until Columbus Day holiday in October.
May 9, 2013 5:22 AM
69 Thank you for asking.May 8, 2013 5:25 PM
70 I would like to see a designated and regulated area for ATV and dirtbike use.
Perhaps in the punkhorns or Nickerson State Park. I think it would be an
opportunity for the town to make revenue by selling off-road ATV permits. All in
all, the town does a great job maintaining open spaces for numerous activities
and enjoyment.
May 8, 2013 1:54 PM
71 I am 29 years old. I represent Brewster's future. It's great we have all this open
space, but we need to seriously beef up recreation and transportation by paving
more roads, namely Great Fields and Crowell's Bog.
May 8, 2013 8:11 AM
72 It is now clear Drummer Boy Park is not the place for a Dog Park. I do not have
a dog. I do support the idea of a Dog Park for Brewster. We need to find the
right place for this activity. Dog owners must support the park financially and
work together to make it happen.
May 8, 2013 7:32 AM
73 The town has done an exemplary job of protecting and managing open space
both developed and not and should continue to do so. I think many people would
be willing to pay more in taxes in order to preserve land and other valuable
historic sites. Parking lots, I believe should remain gravel and signage small as
they can be hot in the spring, summer and fall if they are asphalt. I think the open
space in Brewster should stay as natural as possible using wooden signs with
few pictures, and keeping all information about the sites at one trailhead area.
Interpretive information should be confined to smaller properties with walking
trails and focus should be placed on acquiring land rather than developing it with
trails etc because development can occur at any time, while cheap land prices
and opportunities do not last forever. I think the town has an abundance of
recreational areas for all types of sports. There are basketball courts at the
May 8, 2013 6:52 AM
50 of 50
Page 9, Q16. Please provide any additional information you feel is valuable to this survey here.
elementary school, and elsewhere and there is no shortage of boating and
fishing opportunities. The mountain bikers are always at Nickerson and they
don't bother anyone.
74 Please continue to work toward a fenced dog park solution other than Drummer
Boy Park. Many of us will be willing to contribute to it and help maintain it. And
thank you for doing this survey. Do lots of them; Brewster citizens want to be
involved!
May 8, 2013 4:47 AM
75 Parks for our teens are important! General athletic fields are needed for sports
like lacrosse, soccer and football Towns can earn money by hosting
tournaments!
May 7, 2013 12:33 PM
76 Put the beaches first, that is what people come here for, we need to improve our
beaches and parking. Purchase land for parking!
May 7, 2013 11:26 AM
Appendix C
Town of Brewster Open Space
Accomplishments
Appendix C: Town Open Space Accomplishments
Past Plans/Achievements
The following compilation includes a number of activities, action, plans that have occurred over the past
seventy-five (75) 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.
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
Other 1970s Natural Resource Studies
1 Metcalf & Eddy, 1970 Master Plan, (Town of Brewster, 1970).
2 Cape Cod Planning & Economic Development Commission: Report.
1. 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
2. Conservation-Recreation Land Use Plan - 1978
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. 4
1973: Old King’s Highway Regional Historic District
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. 5
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
of land to DEM along the railbed from Brewster to Eastham. The corridor has recently been extended to
South Wellfleet. 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
3 Barnstable Conservation District, Natural Resources Program, (Town of Brewster 1970).
4 David Boutin, Recreation Land Use Plan, (Town of Brewster,1978)
5 Zoning Code Old King’s Highway Regional Historic District Overlay: Zoning Code, (Town of Brewster).
6 Department of Environmental Management, State of Massachusetts, Guidelines for Operations and Land
Stewardship: Nickerson State Park, (Boston, 1993).
7 Conservation Commission, Open Space and Recreation Plan, (Town of Brewster, 1978)
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: Townwide 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
January 1983 – Regional Sewer Plant in Orleans:
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
January 1983 – Groundwater Monitoring at Landfill:
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.)
May 1983: The Egg Park Property
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
May 1983: Captains Golf Course Property
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.
May 1983 – Building Moratorium
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.
May 1983: Mill Pond Property
May 6, 1983 Annual Town Meeting– Article 48 -approved the “Mill Pond
8 Citizen’s Study Committee, Townwide Survey, (Town of Brewster, 1982).
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 Idib. P. 130
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
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
1984: The Land Acquisition Committee
May 16, 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.
14 Ibid., p. 133 15 1983 Interim Open Space and Recreation Plan, (Town of Brewster).
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,
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.
January 1984: Update l970 Master Plan
January 17, 1984 Special Town Meeting – Article 14 –approved $2,000 to be sued along with a State
grant for updating the 1970 Master Plan.22
May 1984: Upper Mill Pond Parcels
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
December 10, 1984: Frey Property
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
December 10, 1984: The Brewster Wetlands Protection By-Law
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
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).
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.
22 Town of Brewster, 1984 Annual Reports, (Brewster, 1984). P.119.
23 Ibid. p. 158.
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).
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 small
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.
The 1985 Plan was written and produced by the Conservation Commission and many of the thoughts and
ideas expressed in this 2006 Open Space Plan are theirs; and are still as potent and provocative as they
were then. Many items contained within this text have been 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.
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
August 1985: The Castiglioni Property
Spring Town Meeting approved the purchase of one parcel, totaling 24.653 acres of land located in East
Brewster on Route 6A. State Self-Help Funds and Federal 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.
May 27, 1986: Brewster Wetlands Protection Regulations
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.
MAY 1986: The Punkhorn Parklands Conservation Area
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.
27 Open Space Committee, Open Space and Recreation Plan, (Town of Brewster, 1985).
*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
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.
January 1988: Drummer Boy Museum Property
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.
May 9, 1988: Environmental Impact Review By-Law
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
Town Meeting approved receipt of this gift totaling 30.11 acres on Namskaket Creek on the
Brewster/Orleans border.
May 1988: Bakers Pond Property
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
1988: Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Conservation Area
Town Meeting approved purchase of 10.70 acres adjacent to Baker Pond Conservation Area. The Town
received State Grant Funds.
May 1988: Belmont Park Property
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.
May 1988: Punkhorn Parklands II Property
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.
1988: Lynch Conservation Area -Gift
Town Meeting approved receipt of this gift of 7 acres in southwest Brewster along the Harwich line.
1988: Cove Road Wellhead Protection Area
Town Meeting approved purchase of 27.10 acre. These lands provided for an expansion of the buffer area
for wells #1 and #2.
May 1988: Freemans Way Water Property
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.
November 15, 1989: Archaeological Sensitivity Overlay Map
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 has been in process for a number of years and is expected to be completed in the by spring of
2008. Most sections were in revised draft form. This Committee's hard work is reflected in many of the
sections of this 2007 Open Space Plan.
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.
28 Cape Cod Commission, Regional Policy Plan for Barnstable County, (Barnstable, 1991).
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.
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: 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 have 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. Currently the Town has a temporary five-
year lease from DEM, while negotiations continue 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, Townwide 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 the 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 includes all land identified on the Town of
Brewster Zoning District Map.34
Early work - 1999 Open Space & Recreation Plan
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.
The new Committee consisted of representatives of various Town boards and Departments as well as
members of the general public. These persons were:
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 ByLaw, (Town of Brewster, 1993).
34 Town of Brewster Zoning Districts Map
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 this 1999 Update. 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.
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.
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: 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 Soil Conservation Service 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
35 DEM, GOALS Management Plan Nickerson State Park, (Boston, 1993).
36 Cape Cod Commission, Monomoy Lens Groundwater Protection Project, (Barnstable, 1993).
37 Soil Survey of Barnstable County, Massachusetts (Barnstable, 1993)
38 Ibid.
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.
November 1994: Housing Authority Phase II
One parcel consisting of eight acres was purchased for $104,500 to provide affordable Senior Housing. 24
units have been 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 has been tabled until the Conservation Commission proceeds with the
project.
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
November 1995: Melcher Property
These two parcels, amounting to 10.8 acres for $45.000, were acquired to add to the Captains Golf
Course.
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
39 Water Quality Review Committee, Groundwater Protection District, Zoning ByLaw, (Brewster, 1994).
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 recommends 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.
September 1997: Golf Course Expansion II Property
Seventeen parcels, totaling 126.8. were approved in the amount of $1,655,598 to provide for an additional
to the Captains Golf Course.
November 1997: Freemans Way Barrows Property
Three more parcels, totaling 29 acres for $450,000, provided further protection within the eastern
Wellfields’ Zone II.
May 1988: Golf/Murphy Property
This acquisition added one parcel of 5.44 acres for $48,000 to the Golf Course lands.
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%.
40 Cape Cod Commission, The Monomoy Capacity Study, (Barnstable, 1996).
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
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 at least $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
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 are: 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 have contributed needed information, recommendations for land purchases
and guidance as this 2007 Open Space & Recreation Plan has been formulated. 41
November 1998: Ellis Property –Hawk’s Nest- A Brewster Pathways Connection
Barnstable 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.
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 sample 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
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,
41 Cape Cod Pathways Committee, The Cape Cod Pathways Punkhorn Map, (Barnstable, 1999).
42 Cape Cod Commission, Long Pond Water Quality, (Barnstable, 1998).
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 is 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 consolidates the existing information regarding the understanding and location
of significant wildlife habitat and associated species on Cape Cod. In addition, it provides 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 this Plan. 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
1999: Preserving Cape Cod’s Past For The Future:
A Cultural Landscape Study 45
The passage of the Cape Cod Land Bank provides Cape Cod communities with a valuable opportunity to
protect important sites from future development. In the past however, identification of lands for
preservation has focused primarily on areas with ecological sensitivity or the presence of historical
43 Cape Cod Commission, Cape Cod Wildlife Conservation Project, (Barnstable, 1999).
44 ibid. The Priority Land Acquisition Assessment Project, (Barnstable, 1999).
45 Ibid. Preserving Cape Cod’s Past for the Future, (Barnstable, 1999).
structures. Under that traditional system of classification, a number of cultural/rural historic landscapes,
such as farmlands and maritime sites have received minimal protection, despite their crucial role in
defining the character of the region. As individual towns examine their open space needs and consider
their land bank purchase options, an inventory and evaluation of local cultural landscape sites can 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 includes 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 meeting. It provides a model format for
completing a cultural landscape inventory in any Cape town. Sample evaluations have been done for the
towns of Bourne, Sandwich, and Falmouth. Data concerning Brewster’s cultural landscapes is discussed
in Section 3 A, Regional Context – Community Setting.
The Commission will 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 will 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 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: 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 are 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 are: Walking,
Hiking
Biking
Swimming
Boating/Use of Bay and Pond Beaches
Specific Survey Results are discussed in Section 6 of this Plan.46
Land Bank Acquisitions:
November 1999: Bruch Property
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.
November 2001: Ahlstrom Property
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.
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
46 Open Space Committee, Townwide Survey, (Brewster, 1999).
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
May 2002: Rowley Property Phase #1
This first phase purchase of the 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.
November 2002: Whitegate Farm Property
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
$195,264.00.
November 2003: Nevin – Jolly Whaler (Nevin) Property
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.
2004: Rowley Property Phase #2
This second phase purchase of the 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.
November 2004: Krawitz Property
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
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 well located directly west over the Dennis border
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 will 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 requires 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 gives 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
November 2005: BBJ Cranberry Trust
Approved at 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. Included in
this purchase were cranberry bogs and a vernal pool.
November 2005: Jorgenson Property
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 self-help grant funds.
This and the BBJ Cranberry Trust property were the first open space lands to be purchased using CPA
funds
Overview of Purchases since 1983:
Acres purchased Number of parcels Total Cost Grant Funds Received
925.7 132 $18,304,828 $3,588,652
2000-2007 Open Space Committee
This committee currently includes:
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
November 2007: Stranahan Property
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
November 2007: Crystaloski Property
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: $700,000, CPA funds $700,000
2008: District of Critical Planning Concern (DCPC)
The Cape Cod Commission designated the Zone IIs and the Pleasant Bay Watershed as a DCPC in 2008.
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 is 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 is that the State and the EPA had declared that Pleasant Bay is an “impacted water body”,
which means that the health of the Bay’s ecosystem is rapidly declining.
The third and by far, the largest and most widespread threats to Brewster’s water resources come from
wastewater (Title 5 septic specifically) and from sprawling patterns of development that needlessly
consume land and multiply the risks of contamination within the vulnerable groundwater recharge area.
Open space purchases alone will 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.
November 2008: Water Quality Protection Bylaw
This bylaw replaced the existing “Groundwater Protection District Bylaw” (GWPD), which was instituted
in 1994. This new proposed district follows the bounds of the town’s zones of contribution to public
drinking water supplies and includes the land area which has 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 has 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 has 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 will need 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 are currently releasing into
the water shed. 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.
November 2008: Sand & Gravel Mining Bylaw
This bylaw was designed to bring best management practices to earth moving and soil mining activities in
Brewster. Soil mining and earth moving activities have 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 does
not shut-down or close existing operations, but allows for the continuation of these activities, provided
they comply 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 requires re-vegetation of disturbed areas as
the sand resources are exhausted.
May 2009: Quivett Marsh Vista – Pratt Property
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 have 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, Private funds $15,000, other,
$208,844
October 2009: Bates Property
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
November 2009: Natural Resource Protection Design Bylaw
The primary purpose of this bylaw is to protect water resources and preserve the open
space of Brewster as identified in the DCPC. This bylaw fosters compact development patterns using
flexible regulations for density and lot dimensions and to promote and encourage 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. 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.
May 2010: Matthews Property
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
November 2011: Seidel Property
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
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
November 2011: Jackson Property
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:
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.
October 2012: Copelas Properties
These two parcels, one in East Brewster and one in West Brewster, total 82 acres and represent 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 provide important wildlife habitat, protection for existing
municipal well-fields and have been a top priority for acquisition for many years. A network of walking
trails already exists on the parcels that can 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 is about $22,000 per acre, which may 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) contributes 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.
Status: The Town has not closed on the Naumkeag Acres, since the owner is in court with title issues.
The Town plans to close on Windrift Acres December 2013 and is applying for a state grant for this
purchase.
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
2013 Open Space Committee
This committee currently includes:
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
Appendix D
Inventory of Lands of Conservation and
Recreation Interest
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 1 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 2 1 PINE POND RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Fishing, Swimming, Canoeing YES NONE Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 2 15 PINE POND RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Fishing, Swimming, Canoeing YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 6 15 MAIN STREET RM 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 6 39 MAIN STREET REAR RR/RM 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 9 12 SLOUGH ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Permanent CR held by BCT 9 14 SLOUGH ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES PATHWAYS GRANT Hawk’s Nest/Ellis Permanent CR held by BCT 9 15 SLOUGH ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES PATHWAYS GRANT Hawk’s Nest/Ellis Permanent CR held by BCT 9 16 SLOUGH ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES STATE SELF HELP GRANT Jorgenson Permanent Wellfield Preservation Restriction held by Dennis Water District. 9 23 SLOUGH ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 9 24 SLOUGH ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Fishing, Swimming, Canoeing YES NONE BOS to Cons C0om Permanent CR held by BCT
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 2 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 9 25 SLOUGH ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Fishing, Swimming, Canoeing YES NONE- BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 10 37 SLOUGH ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding, Bow Hunting in season YES STATE SELF HELP GRANT BBJ/Mother’s Bog Permanent Wellfield Preservation Restriction held by Dennis Water District 10 23,24,25,26 SLOUGH ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding, Bow Hunting in season YES STATE SELF HELP GRANT BBJ/Mother’s Bog Permanent Wellfield Preservation Restriction held by Dennis Water District 10 51,52,53 SLOUGH ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding, Bow Hunting in season YES STATE SELF HELP GRANT BBJ/Mother’s Bog Permanent Wellfield Preservation Restriction held by Dennis Water District. 13 73 RED TOP ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 14 6 RED TOP ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 14 7 RED TOP ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 14 8 RED TOP ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 3 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 14 9 RED TOP ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 14 10 RED TOP ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 15 33 ROUTE 6A RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 16 1 QUIVETT MARSH RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 16 15 MAIN STREET REAR RM 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 16 17 MAIN STREET REAR VB 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 16 2,3 MAIN STREET RM 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES STATE L.A.N.D. GRANT Quivett Marsh Vista Permanent CR held by BCT 19 45 SLOUGH ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE Permanent CR held by BCT 20 4 PUNKHORN ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 20 29 BLACK DUCK CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 20 31 BLACK DUCK CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 4 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 20 33 BLACK DUCK CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Krawitz Permanent CR held by BCT 20 34 BLACK DUCK CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 20 35 BLACK DUCK CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 21 1 ARCHIES CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 21 2 ARCHIES CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Seidel Permanent CR held by BCT 21 6 WALKERS & UPPER MILL PONDS RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 22 2 ARCHIES CARTWAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Fishing, Swimming YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 24 28 ROCKY HILL RR 9320 GOOD-natural YES YES NONE Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 25 14 A P NEWCOMB ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Walking YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 26 11 MAIN STREET REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES STATE SELF HELP GRANT Ahlstrom Permanent CR held by BCT 26 12 MAIN STREET REAR RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES STATE SELF HELP GRANT Ahlstrom Permanent CR held by BCT 26 39 MAIN STREET RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES STATE L.A.N.D GRANT Stranahan Permanent CR held by BCT
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 5 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 29 2 WEST GATE ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 29 4 SQUANTUM PATH RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 30 9 WEST GATE ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 31 11 EAST GATE ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 31 12 EAST GATE ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 31 13 WEST GATE ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural - Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 31 14 WEST GATE ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 37 23 PAINES CREEK RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 37 45 LOWER ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 37 60 MAIN STREET CHD 9320 GOOD-natural Walking YES NONE Betty’s Curve Permanent CR held by BCT 37 92 MAIN STREET CHD 9320 GOOD-natural Walking YES NONE Betty’s Curve Permanent CR held by BCT
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 6 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 37 94 MAIN STREET CHD 9320 GOOD-natural Walking YES NONE‐ Betty’s Curve Permanent CR held by BCT 38 44 LANTERN LANE RM 9320 GOOD-natural YES YES NONE Town Conservation Land 40 14 SQUANTUM PATH RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 41 2 SQUANTUM PATH RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 41 5,1,10,6 PUNKHORN ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES STATE L.A.N.D. GRANT-Bates Permanent CR held by BCT 42 2 EAST GATE ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE-BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 42 3 PUNKHORN ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE-BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 42 6 EAST GATE ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE-BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 43 2 MASSASOIT TRAIL RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 45 27 GREAT FIELDS ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE-BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 48 10 BRIER LANE RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 54 20 HAZEL LANE RR/RM 9320 GOOD-natural YES YES NONE Town Conservation
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 7 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission Land56 62 LONG POND ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 63 32 GULLS WAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE-not part of Rowley? Town Conservation Land 65 68 LONG POND ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 65 69 LONG POND ROAD REAR RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 65 70 LONG POND ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 68 105 MAIN STREET RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE-Harden-Chapman Preserve Town Conservation Land 74 99 LONG POND ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD- Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, Fishing, Swimming, Canoeing YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 74 101 LONG POND ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD- Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, Fishing, Swimming, YES STATE SELF--Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 75 45 LONG POND ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, Fishing, Swimming, Canoeing YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Bruch Permanent CR held by BCT 75 46 LONG POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, Fishing, Swimming, Canoeing YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Bruch Permanent CR held by BCT
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 8 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 75 57 LONG POND ROAD CH 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 75 60 LONG POND ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT--Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 75 62 LONG POND ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback riding, YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Rowley Permanent CR held by BCT 85 43 LONG POND ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 94 83 MCGUERTY ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 94 94 LONG POND ROAD RL 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES STATE SELF-HELP GRANT-Hilbert/White Gate Farm Permanent CR held by BCT 94 102 LONG POND ROAD RL/RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking Hiking YES NONE-Crystaloski Permanent CR held by BCT 97 21 MILLSTONE ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, YES NONE Town Conservation Land 102 17 MAIN STREET RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE-Spruce Hill Town Conservation Land 102 18 MAIN STREET RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 102 19 LINNELL LANDING ROAD RM 9320 GOOD-natural Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 105 13 ABUTS CAPTAINS RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 9 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 106 5 LONG POND ROAD REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE-BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 115 51 CAPE COD BAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, YES NONE Town Conservation Land 119 1-? ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF COURSE RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE-Golf Course to Cons Com Town Conservation Land 119 1-B, 1-E ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF COURSE RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE-Golf Course to Cons Com Town Conservation Land 119 1-C ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF COURSE RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE-Golf Course to Cons Com Town Conservation Land 119 1-D ABUTS CAPTAINS GOLF COURSE RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking YES NONE-Golf Course to Cons Com Town Conservation Land 127 36 CAPE COD BAY RM 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE-BOS to Cons Com Permanent CR held by BCT 127 37 CAPE COD BAY RM 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking Walking YES NONE – BOS to Cons Com Namskakett Marsh Permanent CR held by BCT 127 38 CAPE COD BAY RR 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking, Walking YES NONE-Namskakett Marsh Town Conservation Land 132 18 MID CAPE HIGHWAY I 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 132 24 MID CAPE HIGHWAY I 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 10 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 132 34 MID CAPE HIGHWAY I 9320 GOOD-natural Hiking Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 135 4 HIGGINS POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 135 5 HIGGINS POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 135 6 HIGGINS POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 136 6 BAKERS POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 136 8 BAKERS POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 136 12 BAKERS POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 137 8 OLDE OWL POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking YES NONE Town Conservation Land 137 51 JAM LANE RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 137 52 JAM LANE REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 11 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 137 53 JAM LANE REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 137 54 DEER PATH CIRCLE REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 137 55 DEER PATH CIRCLE REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 137 56 DEER PATH CIRCLE REAR RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 137 61 BAKERS POND ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE Town Conservation Land 144 44 ROUTE 39 RR/I 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 144 65 WOOD DUCK ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking Hiking YES NONE Permanent Wellfield Preservation Restriction held by the Town of Orleans 145 33 ORLEANS TOWN LINE RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 145 26,27 WOOD DUCK ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES STATE L.A.N.D. GRANT-Matthews Permanent Wellfield Preservation Restriction held by the Town of Orleans 146 9 ABUTS NSP RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 12 MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9320= Vacant Conservation) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL PUBLIC ACCESS TYPE OF PUBLIC GRANT ACCEPTED DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Conservation Commission 146 14 ABUTS NSP RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 146 15 ABUTS NSP RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 146 17 CLAYHOLE ROAD RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land 147 3 ABUTS NSP RR 9320 GOOD-natural Walking, Hiking, Horseback Riding YES NONE- Tax Title Taking Town Conservation Land MAP LOT STREET NAME ZONING CURRENT USE (LAND USE CODE: 9310=TOWN, IMPROVED) CONDITION (GOOD, FAIR, POOR) RECREATION POTENTIAL (Y/N) PUBLIC ACCESS (Y/N) PURCHASE / GRANT SOURCE DEGREE OF PROTECTION Lands Owned and Managed by the Brewster Recreation Department 76 21 UNDERPASS ROAD RM 9310 GOOD Tennis YES US TENNIS ASSOCIATION Town Recreation Land 119 4 RECREATION DRIVE I 9310 GOOD Baseball, Soccer YES NONE Town Recreation Land
Appendix D. Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest 13 LEGEND ZONING: RL‐ Residential Light Density RM‐ Residential Medium Density RR‐ Residential Rural CH‐ Commercial High Density I‐ Industrial CURRENT USE: State Land Use Code 9320 = Vacant, Conservation State Land Use Code 9310 = Town land, improved DEGREE OF PROTECTION: BCT= Brewster Conservation Trust
Appendix E
Parcels Owned and Managed by the Brewster
Conservation Trust
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 5/16/2013
1
LAND PARCELS OWNED & MANAGED BY BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST: 2013
A C R E A G E Assessors'Assessors' Assesso
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP OLD LOT EXT #
BCT61A 3/26/2000 Robert E. & James A. HARVEY 3.80 0 3.80 pine/oak woods 5 68 21 50 0
BCT61C 3/26/2000 Robert E. & James A. HARVEY 9.30 0 9.30 pine/oak woods 5 69 21 82 102 0
BCT61B 3/26/2000 Robert E. & James A. HARVEY 3.76 0 3.76 pine/oak woods 5 70 21 80 0
BCT 4 1/2/1984 Gerald & Catherine McCARTHY 0.36 0 0.36 fill; phragmites 5 75 21 80 14 0
BCT 2 11/27/1983 Marjorie S. BURLING 0.22 0 0.22 pine slope 5 95 21 100 1 0
BCT 3 11/27/1983 J. Andrew SQUIRES 0.22 0 0.22 pine slope 5 96 21 105 1 0
BCT110A 2/12/2008 Daryl Massey BLADEN, Trustee 0.00 7.60 7.60 brackish marsh 6 11 21 1 1 0
BCT110B 2/12/2008 Daryl Massey BLADEN, Trustee 0.50 0.00 0.50 house lot, yard; house removed 6 11 21 1 63
BCT87 1/5/2006 Heirs of John O. NILES (via Compact)3.39 0.84 4.23 pondshore; pine/oak woods 10 38 38 57 0
BCT120B 9/29/2009 Harry & Olivia BASSETT 0.47 0.17 0.64 old bog; maple woods 11 20 38 15 0
BCT120A 9/29/2009 Harry & Olivia BASSETT 0.28 0.36 0.64 old bog; maple woods 11 21 38 11 0
BCT48 11/23/1995 Everett Howard SEARS 0.22 0.51 0.73 maple swamp 11 24 38 14 0
BCT89 6/22/2006 Diane L. BOUCHARD 1.00 1.30 2.30 pondshore; maple swamp 11 44 38 42 0
BCT137 12/19/2011 Jackson H. CROCKER (via Compact)1.00 1.60 2.60 pondshore; old bog 12 59 23 30
BCT139 1/17/2012 Wendell B. HUNTON 1.89 0.00 1.89 pondshore 13 6
BCT135 5/27/2011 Cletus J. WARREN 2.60 0.00 2.60 pine/oak woods 13 95 37 23
BCT24 9/4/1990 Carl & Mary AHLSTROM 0 10.48 10.48 salt marsh 16 18 22 26 9 0
BCT145 12/21/2012 Anthony F. GERARDI 1.87 6.07 7.94 old bog; pond 16 23 22 ?
BCT39 10/6/1993 Robert N. QUADE 2.35 0 2.35 pondshore;woods 19 20 51 11 5 0
BCT138 12/22/2011 John & Joann FIGUERAS (via Compact)2.00 0.00 2.00 pine/oak woods 21 11 31 62
BCT86A 11/14/2005 Frank DOBLE et al 1.40 0.00 1.40 meadow;pine woods 23 12 37 26 3 0
BCT86B 11/14/2005 Frank DOBLE et al 1.40 0.00 1.40 meadow;pine woods 23 13 37 26 2 0
BCT86C 11/14/2005 Frank DOBLE et al 1.63 0.00 1.63 meadow;pine woods 23 16 37 26 1 0
BCT118 3/25/2009 Peter T. DAMON (via Compact)1.18 1.15 2.33 pondshore; maple swamp 23 45 36 39 0
BCT147 5/3/2013 ERM Family Ltd Partnership (McIVER) (via C 1.24 0.00 1.24 meadow 26 25 0
BCT16 12/23/1987 Betsy G. CLARK 0.08 0 0.08 meadow 26 26 20 12 4 0
BCT17 4/7/1988 Michael A. ARPANO 1.08 0 1.08 meadow 26 26 20 12 3 0
BCT129 7/12/2010 Caroline TRICKEY & Sarah A. WALKER 0.43 0.00 0.43 pondshore; pondbank 35 43 36 18 101
BCT115 10/20/2008 Bernard J. COOPER 0.00 0.40 0.40 stream; fresh marsh 36 16 20 35 0
BCT73A 12/13/02 Estate of Fred H. GRAY, Jr.0.02 0.55 0.57 shrub swamp 36 39 23 33 0
BCT73B 12/13/02 Estate of Fred H. GRAY, Jr.0.14 0.97 1.11 shrub swamp 36 41 23 4 0
BCT19 8/29/1988 Helen C. MacGREGOR et al.1.87 0.89 2.76 pondshore; field 36 47 23 55 0
BCT49 4/1/1996 Heirs of G. PARTHENIA ELLIS 8.65 0.25 8.90 pine/oak woods 37 4 1 21 0
BCT26 11/20/1990 Robert & Beverly RICCI 0 0.47 0.47 shrub swamp 37 49 19 38 0
BCT100 6/29/2007 Frances MANION 0.59 0.10 0.69 oak/maple woods, ditch 37 54 19 68 0
BCT55 12/1/1997 Lorraine K. BARRINGER 0.63 0 0.63 37 55 19 39 0
BCT36 10/22/1992 Natalie ROBINSON 0.81 0 0.81 sycamore maples 38 7 1 8 0
BCT123 3/1/2010 Robert L. NORUM 1.37 0.00 1.37 pine/oak woods 41 7 50 33
BCT146 4/29/2013 BASSETT Family Trust (via Compact)2.1 0.10 2.20 pine/oak woods 42 11 50 26 0
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 5/16/2013
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A C R E A G E Assessors'Assessors' Assesso
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP OLD LOT EXT #
BCT85A 8/31/2005 Sarah L. DONAHUE 1.73 0.00 1.73 pine/oak woods 42 12 50 28 1 0
BCT85B 8/31/2005 Sarah L. DONAHUE 0.67 0.66 1.33 pondshore;maple swamp 42 17 50 28 0
BCT111 4/18/2008 Frank R. PLONA 2.37 0.00 2.37 pine/oak woods 45 21 35 67 0
BCT133 3/31/2011 June WHITWORTH 1.73 0.22 1.95 pondshore; maple swamp 47 85 23 53 2 0
BCT22 8/10/1989 Robert & Joan FLAHERTY 0.57 0.49 1.06 old bog 48 21 19 30 0
BCT23 9/5/1989 Elizabeth B. WOLLACOTT 1.25 0.27 1.52 shrub swamp 48 22 19 29 0
BCT28C 12/26/1991 CAPE COD FIVE CENTS BANK 0.67 0 0.67 shrub swamp 48 24 19 94 0
BCT28A 12/26/1991 CAPE COD FIVE CENTS BANK 0.65 0 0.65 shrub swamp 48 25 19 26 0
BCT28B 12/26/1991 CAPE COD FIVE CENTS BANK 0.64 0 0.64 shrub swamp 48 26 19 93 0
BCT99 6/27/2007 The B.D. Realty (DANIELS) Trust 0.9 1.52 2.42 maple swamp; old bog 48 65 24 3 0
BCT59 12/22/1999 John D. & Linda P. HOOD 0.00 1.02 1.02 old bog 48 66 24 48 0
BCT66 4/11/02 Lois Q. RACZ 2 2.23 4.23 pine/oak, red maple 48 82 24 25 0
BCT33 4/26/1992 V.M. WELLOCK & G.W. GIBSON 0.08 0 0.08 dune 49 81 3 70 0
BCT68 6/26/02 William & Agnes DOWLING 8.3 0 8.3 pine/oak woods 49 105 18 6 0
BCT11 10/24/1984 Robert & Marie McDONNELL 0.36 0 0.36 pine/locusts 49 128 3 108 A 0
BCT43 10/24/1994 Arthur F.& Geraldine P. DUGAN 0.19 9.16 9.35 old bog 49 137 18 22 2 0
BCT94A 12/29/2006 Dennis W. DUGAN 1.04 1.76 2.80 maple swamp; ditch 49 154 18 27 0
BCT94B 12/29/2006 Dennis W. DUGAN 1.50 1.50 3.00 maple swamp; ditch 49 156 19 28 0
BCT62 6/27/2000 Ruth & Mary-Louise EDDY 31.89 0 31.89 pine/oak woods 50 135 3 154 2 0
BCT10E 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.79 0 0.79 dry kettles 51 73 49 75 0
BCT10D 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.67 0 0.67 dry kettles 51 74 49 74 0
BCT10C 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.71 0 0.71 dry kettles 51 75 49 73 0
BCT10B 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.61 0 0.61 dry kettles 51 76 49 72 0
BCT10A 10/24/1984 Ida SWARTZ & Ellen WALD 0.77 0 0.77 dry kettles 51 77 49 71 0
BCT 6 7/1/1984 Estate of Allan S. BRAGG 0.14 0 0.14 pondshore 53 28 35 80 0
BCT142 6/27/3012 John & Carol ERICSSON 2.30 0.00 2.30 meadow; cedar woods 55 139 35 91 1
BCT82 12/23/2004 Lawrence MINEAR 0.52 0.10 0.62 pondshore; pine/oak woods 56 84 24 70 0
BCT56 12/29/1998 Roy W. ROBINSON, Jr.4.78 1.01 5.79 pine/oak woods 57 1 18 19 2 0
BCT27B 12/12/1991 Hope T. DAVIS 0.71 0 0.71 pine/oak woods 57 49 17 77 0
BCT27A 12/12/1991 Hope T. DAVIS 0.44 0.11 0.55 pine/oak woods 57 55 17 73 0
BCT20 12/26/1988 Mary Louise & Ruth EDDY 0.12 0.81 0.93 wooded swamp 57 58 17 18 0
BCT21 4/23/1989 Margaret GIBBS Trust -- ----wooded swamp 57 58 17 18 0
BCT 7 8/9/1984 Mary Louise & Ruth EDDY 12.01 6.49 18.50 meadow,garden 57 59 18 20 0
BCT114 10/9/2008 Lenore M. DEDON, Trustee 0.28 2.24 2.52 old bog; maple swamp;dike 57 60 18 21 2 0
BCT15 9/16/1987 Daniel & Joan PAINE 0.41 0 0.41 pine/oak wood 58 52 4 57 0
BCT 1 11/20/1983 Daniel & Joan PAINE 0.68 0 0.68 pine/oak wood 58 53 4 59 0
BCT54 11/4/1996 Ruth A. PRIEST 1.44 0 1.44 ex-house, yard 58 66 4 26 1 219
BCT34 4/28/1992 Ruth A. PRIEST 0.26 0.29 0.55 brackish marsh 58 67 4 26 0
BCT25B 9/24/1990 Warren & Jacquelyn PRICE 1.53 0 1.53 woods 68 1 17 10 2 0
BCT25A 9/24/1990 Warren & Jacquelyn PRICE 0.35 0.8 1.15 old bog; woods 68 2 17 10 3 0
BCT30 3/17/1992 CC MUS. OF NATURAL HISTORY 0 0.61 0.61 shrub swamp 69 108 5 22 0
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 5/16/2013
3
A C R E A G E Assessors'Assessors' Assesso
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP OLD LOT EXT #
BCT88 2/17/2006 Est. of Roland & Marilyn TABER 0.10 0.66 0.76 old bog 75 3 26 74 0
BCT91 11/28/2006 SEA PINES TRUST (Scheft et al)1.83 0.45 2.28 pine/oak woods; shrub swamp 77 11 26 8 0
BCT57 8/9/1999 G. WORKMAN & M. SELOVER 0.84 0.25 1.09 inland bank; swamp 78 52 15 79 0
BCT 8A 9/6/1984 Mildred W. SHAW 0.23 0 0.23 pine/oak wood 78 63 15 84 0
BCT 8B 9/6/1984 Mildred W. SHAW 0.30 0 0.30 pine/oak wood 78 70 15 85 0
BCT 5 6/21/1984 Willard & Eliz. TIBBETTS 0.45 0 0.45 shrub thicket 79 67 6 32 0
BCT143B 8/24/2012 WEEKES & FULLER 3.30 0.00 3.30 beech forest 82 47 48 14
BCT143A 8/24/2012 WEEKES & FULLER 3.10 0.00 3.10 beech forest;pondshore 82 48 48 15
BCT47 11/8/1995 Peter HERRMANN/Karen MALKUS 1.84 0 1.84 pond; beech woods 82 65 47 83 4 0
BCT63 3/26/2001 BARBOUR Nominee Trust 19.92 0.00 19.92 pine/oak woods 85 44 33 35 5 0
BCT13 12/30/1986 Edward B. DOHERTY 0.23 0 0.23 pine/oak wood 85 86 42 7 3 0
BCT112 6/16/2008 A. Nelson LONG, Jr.0.17 0.00 0.17 pine/oak woods 86 35 33 299 0
BCT50 4/25/1996 Frank B. VARGA 0.55 0 0.55 pine/oak woods 89 45 27 28 170 0
BCT45A 6/15/1995 BIRCHARD & C.Vincent TREAT 3.99 2.01 6.00 pine/oak woods 89 50 27 139 1 0
BCT44 6/15/1995 William H. BIRCHARD 0.56 0.18 0.74 blueberry swamp 89 51 27 139 0
BCT41 4/28/1994 Jane C. WAGONER 0.55 0 0.55 pondshore;woods 89 57 27 84 2 0
BCT42 4/28/1994 Barbara H. ALBRET 0.51 0 0.51 pondshore;woods 89 59 27 199 0
BCT51 4/25/1996 Frank B. VARGA 0.69 0 0.69 pondshore; woods 89 63 27 197 0
BCT12 12/8/1985 Frances M. NICKERSON 4.13 0 4.13 pine/oak wood 90 152 14 3 2 0
BCT45B 6/15/1995 BIRCHARD & C.Vincent TREAT 0 3.31 3.31 old bog; stream 90 185 14 81 0
BCT38 10/4/1993 Frances M. NICKERSON 1.01 7.71 8.72 dune,flats,beach 91 43 14 3 1 200
BCT37 8/22/1993 Katherine NOVOTNY 0.29 0 0.29 pine/oak woods 93 50 47 55 4 0
BCT117 3/17/2009 Samuel & Mary BIONDI 0.12 0.00 0.12 oak/beech woods 94 70 42 209 0
BCT90 6/29/2006 Henry W. & Lucy B. PATTERSON 2.73 0.00 2.73 pine/oak woods 96 163 42 82 0
BCT14 1/19/1987 Catherine M. HART 4.41 0 4.41 pine/oak wood 97 28 33 68 C 0
BCT35 7/30/1992 Estate of Amy E. HOOPER 1.40 0 1.40 pine/oak woods 99 75 32 4 0
BCT98 4/27/2007 Marston and Jean DALEY 0.00 0.35 0.35 maple swamp; oak woods 101 55 13 32 20 0
BCT76 6/11/2003 John A. WILSON & Helen MacDONALD 2.90 0.00 2.90 pine/oak woods 108 25 46 5 0
BCT 9 10/17/1984 MITCHELL/WATERS 15.03 6.01 21.04 pine/oak wood 114 53 11 1 6 0
BCT126 5/7/2010 John A. SPARGO 0.00 3.96 3.96 salt marsh 115 11 9 18 3
BCT75 6/9/2003 Kenneth G.T. & Perrie DRYSDALE 1.51 0.00 1.51 pine/oak woods 115 47 11 1 3 217
BCT18 7/31/1988 Dorrold V. MacGREGOR 0 2.49 2.49 salt marsh 115 52 10 4 0
BCT64 10/3/2001 Gordon H. & Christine F. BROOKS 5.49 1.09 6.58 old bog 126 13 11 24 2 0
BCT116 2/9/2009 James and Ellen EHRHART 0.19 0.00 0.19 pine/oak woods 127 1 11 7 0
BCT53 11/4/1996 Ralph R. CROWELL 11.01 0.69 11.70 pondshore; woods 132 4 46 33 0
BCT130 12/28/2010 William R. HAMMATT 0.40 0.00 0.40 pine/oak woods 133 2 45 16 0
BCT97 4/16/2007 Bertha M. WOODFIN 1.00 0.00 1.00 pondshore;pine/oak woods 133 18 46 34 1 0
BCT95 1/12/2007 Peter SPARROW (via Compact)4.10 0.00 4.10 pondshore;pine/oak woods 133 19 46 34 0
BCT131A 12/29/2010 JAMAR Realty Trust (TELLIER)(via Compact 9.65 0.00 9.65 pine/oak woods 136 2 31 37 0
BCT134 5/20/2011 James HARRINGTON 2.50 0.50 3.00 vernal pools;pine/oak wood 144 44 45 39 1 0
BCT131B 12/29/2010 JAMAR Realty Trust (TELLIER)(via Compact 3.00 0.00 3.00 pine/oak woods 144 47 45 59 0
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 5/16/2013
4
A C R E A G E Assessors'Assessors' Assesso
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP OLD LOT EXT #
BCT127 6/1/2010 Sheldon & Tonia HAMILTON 7.62 0.27 7.89 vernal pool;pine/oak wood 144 55 45 42 0
BCT140 1/31/2012 Theresa B. WARD 2.45 0.15 2.60 pine/oak woods 146 8 44 12 0
BCT113A 6/25/2008 Ruth JESTER 1.54 0.00 1.54 pine/oak woods 146 11 44 9 0
BCT113B 6/25/2008 Ruth JESTER 1.70 0.00 1.70 pine/oak woods 146 12 44 30 0
BCT125 4/15/2010 John J. MAHONEY 0.00 0.20 0.20 old bog 146 20 44 35 0
BCT93 12/22/2006 John G. & Betty H. LATHAM 2.35 0 2.35 pine/oak woods 147 5 44 4 0
BCT144 12/3/2012 Heirs of James F. RYDER 1.20 0.00 1.20 pine/oak woods 147 6 44 3 0
BCT-owned Lands, Fee Simple, Sub-Total ACREAGE:272.79 95.38 368.18 NEW NEW OLD OLD
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT MAP LOT MAP LOT EXT
BCT CONSERVATION RESTRICTIONS: 2013
BCT CRs on Private Properties:
A C R E A G E
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP & LOT NUMBER
BCT78A 9/26/2003 BREWSTER PARK CLUB, INC.2.94 0.00 2.94 ballfield; play court; woods 50 74 Map 3, Lots 96 & 124
BCT78B 9/26/2003 BREWSTER PARK CLUB, INC.2.94 0.00 2.94 ballfield; play court; woods 49 111 Map 3, Lots 96 & 124
BCT81A 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 7.00 0.00 7.00 beech forest 36 5 Map 22, Lot 52-2
BCT81B 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 4.15 0.35 4.50 pondshore; beech forest 26 37 Map 20, Lot 23-3
BCT81C 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 0.81 1.89 2.70 brackish marsh 26 36 Map 20, Lot 25
BCT81D 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 0.45 0.00 0.45 pine woods 26 32 Map 20, Lot 26-1
BCT81E 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 0.36 0.00 0.36 parking area 27 5 Map 20, Lot 26-2
BCT81F 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 3.88 0.00 3.88 maple woods 36 10 Map 22, Lot 59-3
BCT81G 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 22.01 28.90 50.91 beech woods;marsh;stream 37 93 Map 20, Lot 27
BCT81H 11/11/2004 CAPE COD MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY 1.70 0.00 1.70 maple/oak woods 36 13 Map 22, Lot 53
BCT72 12/2/2002 Carl F. AHLSTROM IV & Eliz. C. PERRY 8.79 0.00 8.79 pine/oak woods 26 16 Map 22, Lot 26-8
BCT83 12/30/2004 Daryl Massey BLADEN, Trustee 0.00 7.00 7.00 brackish marsh 6 11 Map 21, Lot 1
BCT32 3/17/1992 Donald T. BATES, Jr.n/a n/a n/a pine/oak woods 42 1 Map50,Lots27,31,37
BCT71.1 11/26/2002 Donald T. BATES, Jr. & Nancy BATES n/a n/a n/a pine/oak woods 41 5 Map 50, Lot 17
BCT77A 9/19/2003 Fisher Realty Trust (Doris FISHER, Tr,)1.29 0.00 1.29 dune 69 17 Map 5, Lots 3 &135
BCT77B 9/19/2003 Fisher Realty Trust (Doris FISHER, Tr,)1.29 0.00 1.29 dune 69 18 Map 5, Lots 3 &135
BCT70A 11/26/02 Jeffrey BRODRICK 2.68 0 2.68 pine/oak woods 26 10 Map 22, lot 26-6
BCT70B 11/26/02 Jeffrey BRODRICK 0 0.33 0.33 old bog 26 9 Map 22, lot 25
BCT80 12/23/2003 Joe and Anne WELCH, Trustees 1.34 0.00 1.34 pine/oak woods 41 9 Map 50, Lot 35-2
BCT60 10/5/1999 John & Kristi P. HAY 52.82 0.23 53.05 pine/oak woods 14 11 Map 21, Lot 78
BCT29 12/29/1991 Karen E. BIRDSEY 1.67 0.44 2.11 cedar grove 47 2 Map 23, Lot 38
BCT52 6/19/1996 Louise McCLENNEN 1.01 4.86 5.87 cranberry bog 150 1 & 2 Map 53, Lots 25, 27
BCT65 10/10/2001 Richard and Alice H. TONIS 3.13 2.20 5.33 pondfront;maple swamp 6 10 Map 21, Lot 43, 43-1
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 5/16/2013
5
A C R E A G E Assessors'Assessors' Assesso
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP OLD LOT EXT #
BCT46 10/4/1995 Rosamond R. GAGE 0 2.6 2.60 pondshore; swamp 34 45 Map 36, Lot 48
BCT40 12/27/1993 Sandra K. PAWA 6.07 0 6.07 pondshores;woods 93 10 Map 47, Lot 81
BCT58 9/19/1999 William & Tricia STALLINGS 31.71 0.29 32.00 pine/oak woods 16 13 Map 22, Lots 6, 20
BCT92 12/12/2006 William & Tricia STALLINGS (Watson) 3.9 0 3.9 pine/oak woods 25 33 Map 36, Lot 7
BCT96 1/30/2007 Alan McCLENNEN 0.42 0.00 0.42 pine/oak woods 142 64 Map 53, Lot 12-29
BCT101 10/3/2007 Linda Leverette LOCKARD 7.46 0.00 7.46 pine/oak woods 55 58 Map 35, Lot 24
BCT102 12/11/2007 Richard E. GALLIGAN, Trustee 6.94 0.00 6.94 pine/oak woods 14 27 Map 21, Lot 75
BCT103 12/11/2007 Lisa LaBRECQUE, Bates Realty Trust 0.68 0.00 0.68 meadow;stream 68 37 Map 16, Lot 104-1
BCT104A 12/12/2007 Diane L. BOUCHARD 16.50 0.00 16.50 pine/oak woods; beech 25 31 Map 22, Lot 52-1
BCT104B 12/12/2007 Diane L. BOUCHARD 12.79 0.00 12.79 pine/oak woods; beech 25 29 Map 22, Lot 70
BCT104C 12/12/2007 Diane L. BOUCHARD 0.00 0.40 0.40 old bog; shrub swamp 25 30 Map 22, Lot 69
BCT105 12/21/2007 Carmen S. SCHERZO 0.18 0.00 0.18 dune; revetment 91 1 Map 7, Lot 2
BCT106A 12/31/2007 Brent & Barbara BOWERS 0.59 0.28 0.87 pondshore 5 10 Map 21, Lot 94-5
BCT106B 12/31/2007 Buggy Whip Nom. Trust (Brent BOWERS)2.21 0.00 2.21 pine/oak woods 14 4 Map 37, Lot 8-1
BCT106C 12/31/2007 Buggy Whip Nom. Trust (Brent BOWERS)0.60 0.00 0.60 pine/oak woods 14 3 Map 37, Lot 13-1
BCT121A 10/8/2009 Elizabeth G. TAYLOR, Trustee 3.86 0.56 4.42 beech woods;shrub swamp 45 6 Map 35, Lot 63-1
BCT121B 10/8/2009 Elizabeth G. TAYLOR 1.97 0.00 1.97 beech woods 45 7 Map 35, Lot 64-1
BCT122 12/29/2009 Donald C. ARTHUR 1.45 0.68 2.13 pondshore;maple swamp 48 81 Map 24, Lot 24-2
BCT132 12/29/2010 Jack V. & and Nancy A. DRAKE 2.69 3.25 5.94 maple swamp; old bog 48 45 Map 19, Lot 32
BCT136 12/14/2011 Pamela M. & Arthur F. PRAETSCH, Jr.1.56 0.00 1.56 tupelo grove 48 54 Map 23, Lot 14-3G
BCT CRs on PRIVATE Lands, Sub-Total ACREAGE:221.84 54.26 276.10
25 separate CRs Upland Wetland TOTAL
BCT CRs on TOWN Lands:NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP & LOT NUMBER
BCT74 5/12/2003 Town of BREWSTER (Ahlstrom Estate)3.30 0.00 3.30 pine/oak woods; abuts salt marsh 26 11 Map 22, Lot 26-7
BCT79 10/8/2003 Town of BREWSTER (Davis-Hilbert)8.01 0.00 8.01 pine/oak woods 94 94 Map 47, Lot 26-1
BCT84A 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)0.35 0.00 0.35 pine/oak woods 75 57 Map 34, Lot 12-101
BCT84B 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)0.26 0.00 0.26 pine/oak woods 75 60 Map 34, Lot 12-104
BCT84C 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)22.40 0.00 22.40 pine/oak woods 75 62 Map 34, Lot 12-106
BCT84D 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)1.42 0.00 1.42 pine/oak woods 65 69 Map 34, Lot 12-107
BCT84E 1/4/2005 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley II)0.94 0.00 0.94 pine/oak woods 65 70 Map 34, Lot 12-108
BCT69A 7/11/02 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley I)16.65 2.57 19.22 pine/oak; old bog 74 99 Map 34, Lot 41-2
BCT69B 7/11/02 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley I)0.05 0.00 0.05 pine/oak woods 65 68 Map 34, Lot 41-4
BCT69C 7/11/02 Town of BREWSTER (Rowley I)1.66 0.00 1.66 pine/oak woods 74 101 Map 34, Lot 41-5
BCT107 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Krawitz)6.00 0.40 6.40 pondshore;pine/oak woods 20 33 Map 38, Lot 78
BCT108A 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Betty's Curve)0.00 1.00 1.00 brackish marsh 37 94 Map 20, Lot 41
BCT108B 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Betty's Curve)1.00 0.00 1.00 meadow 37 60 Map 20, Lot 29
BCT108C 1/24/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Betty's Curve)1.22 0.00 1.22 meadow 37 92 Map 20, Lot 30
BCT109 1/30/2008 Town of BREWSTER (Stranahan)9.72 0.12 9.84 pine/oak woods 26 39 Map 20, Lot 23
BCT119A 6/22/2009 Town of BREWSTER (Pratt/Quivett Marsh)1.38 1.02 2.40 meadow; maple swamp 16 2 Map 21, Lot 10
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 5/16/2013
6
A C R E A G E Assessors'Assessors' Assesso
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP OLD LOT EXT #
BCT119B 6/22/2009 Town of BREWSTER (Pratt/Quivett Marsh)1.34 0.06 1.40 meadow; maple swamp 16 3 Map 21, Lot 11
BCT124 4/6/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Crystaloski)5.36 0.00 5.36 pine/oak woods 94 102 Map 47, Lot 29
BCT128A 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)15.63 0.00 15.63 pine/oak woods 41 5 Map 50, Lot 17
BCT128B 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)13.75 0.00 13.75 pine/oak woods 41 1 Map 50, Lot 27
BCT128C 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)1.05 0.00 1.05 pine/oak woods 41 10 Map 50, Lot 31
BCT128D 6/24/2010 Town of BREWSTER (Bates, Punkhorn)5.88 0.00 5.88 pine/oak woods 41 6 Map 50, Lot 37
BCT141 5/22/2012 Town of BREWSTER (Seidel, Punkhorn)6.02 0.00 6.02 pine/oak woods 21 2 Map 38, Lot 85
BCT CRs on TOWN Lands, Sub-Total ACREAGE:123.39 5.17 128.56
11 separate CRs Upland Wetland TOTAL
BCT CRs on TOWN and PRIVATE Lands, TOTAL ACREAGE:345.23 59.43 404.66
Upland Wetland TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL ACREAGE, ALL PROPERTIES PRESERVED BY BCT: 1983 through May 2013
BCT-owned Lands, Fee Simple 272.79 95.38 368.18 Total Acres
BCT CRs on TOWN and PRIVATE Lands 345.23 59.43 404.66 Total Acres
BCT assist on preservation of land in Orleans 3.20 0.00 3.20 Total Acres
All Properties 621.22 154.81 776.04 GRAND Total Acres
Upland Wetland TOTAL
CRs on BCT-owned Lands: Upland Wetland Acres Habitat
BCT62 Ruth & Mary-Louise EDDY 31.89 0.00 31.89 pine/oak woods
BCT64 Gordon H. & Christine F. BROOKS 5.58 0.99 6.58 old bog
BCT24 Carl & Mary AHLSTROM 0.00 10.48 10.48 salt marsh
BCT87 Heirs of John O. NILES (via Compact)3.39 0.84 4.23 pondshore; pine/oak woods
BCT95 Peter SPARROW (via Compact)4.10 0.00 4.10 pondshore;pine/oak woods
BCT110A Daryl Massey BLADEN, Trustee 0.00 7.60 7.60 brackish marsh
BCT111 Frank R. PLONA 2.37 0.00 2.37 pine/oak woods
BCT118 Peter T. DAMON (via The Compact)1.18 1.15 2.33 pondshore; maple swamp
BCT127 Sheldon & Tonia HAMILTON 7.62 0.27 7.89 vernal pools;pine/oak wood
BCT131A JAMAR Realty Trust (TELLIER) 9.65 0.00 9.65 pine/oak woods
BCT138 John & Joann FIGUERAS 2.00 0.00 2.00 pine/oak woods
BCT144 Heirs of James F. RYDER 1.20 0.00 1.20 pine/oak woods
BCT145 Anthony F. GERARDI 1.87 6.07 7.94 old bog; pond
LAND HOLDINGS of the BREWSTER CONSERVATION TRUST Source: The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc. 5/16/2013
7
A C R E A G E Assessors'Assessors' Assesso
ID No.ACQUIRED GRANTOR Upland Wetland TOTAL HABITAT NEW MAP NEW LOT OLD MAP OLD LOT EXT #
70.85 27.40 98.26
Upland Wetland TOTAL