Burke Conservation Commission Identifies Potential Willey Woods Parking Site

BURKE — The Burke Conservation Commission has identified a potential site for a new parking area at Willey Woods that may not require a state wetlands permit, the commission’s chair told the Select Board on Sept. 14.

The development would improve winter access to the town forest and reduce the need to plow Sugar Maple Lane, the Class IV road leading to the existing Willey Woods parking area.

Conservation Commission Chair Diane Wells said commission member Elise Lawson had identified the boundary of the nearest wetland and its 50-foot buffer, helping the group find a possible location outside the regulated area.

The commission still hopes to clear some land to improve visibility and allow vehicles to enter and exit the parking area safely. Wells said the initial plan would avoid removing trees on the uphill, north side of the site, but some clearing and stump removal may be needed.