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Boston Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission enhances the quality of life in Boston by protecting water and land resources.

COVID-19 UPDATE: The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has released a guidance document for any new applications being submitted. They also have a frequently asked questions sheet for other questions.


Protecting and restoring our natural environment and ecosystems is central to our mission. We know when people have clean parks and water, they are healthier and happier.

Need to know

Boston recently passed a local wetlands ordinance. Please refer to our filing section below, for new submission requirements and further information.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Members of the public may share public comments during the hearing. The Conservation Commission will also accept written testimony for agenda items via email at cc@boston.gov prior to the hearing. Written testimony should be submitted by 3:30 p.m. on the day of a 6 p.m. hearing.

Wetlands regulations

The Wetlands Protection Ordinance gives the City greater authority to protect its wetlands. Our wetlands are crucial to controlling flooding and protecting Boston's neighborhoods and green spaces. Developing regulations is the first step that will help Boston preserve its natural areas for years to come.

We've already implemented administrative and procedural regulations for the Boston Wetlands Ordinance. We have also created a list of common questions and answers about the ordinance.

Related links

About our work

Protecting Wetlands

Wetlands are vital to the City's natural environment. They provide a habitat for fish, shellfish, and wildlife. Wetlands maintain groundwater and water quality. They also mitigate the impacts of flooding, storm damage, and pollution. We also seek public access to wetland resource areas where it's appropriate. In protecting Boston’s wetlands, the Conservation Commission administers the:

Flood plains

Anything that falls within a flood plain can affect wetland health. That's why we review projects that fall within them. A flood plain is the area of land inundated during floods. 

Education

The commission also works to foster a connection between the people of Boston and the City’s natural areas. We do this through environmental education. We also maintain natural, open-space properties, known as Urban Wilds, that are open to the public.

Commission Info

  • Department:
  • Authority:
    Both
  • Term:
    3 year
  • Stipend:
    No
  • Total Seats:
    7

Current members

Member Appointed Expires Status
John P. Sullivan Jr. 11/4/2019 11/1/2022 Active
Michael Wilson 11/4/2019 11/1/2022 Active
Michael Parker 11/4/2019 11/1/2022 Active
Anne Herbst 11/4/2019 11/1/2022 Active
Alice Richmond 11/4/2019 11/1/2022 Active
Kannan Thiruvengadam 11/23/2021 11/1/2022 Active
Amy Linné 7/22/2024 Active
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