Ag Commission sets cold storage opening, trail signage plans

Agricultural Commission · Meeting of May 13, 2026

Pepperell Agricultural Commission maps out cold storage opening and equestrian trail signage. The commission reported its new cold storage facility now has a working security and humidity-control system, with three additional coolers for dairy, meat and produce purchased but not yet assembled. Members recapped a call with UMass Extension's Dr.

Hashemi, who told them "it's arbitrary" that regulations treat livestock manure like hazardous chemicals and recommended grass buffers over fixed setback distances. Member Naomi agreed to catalog the town's equestrian trails ahead of a signage push, pending permission from the state Department of Conservation and Recreation. The commission also began planning an expanded Open Farm Day featuring small "pocket farms" and beekeeping demonstrations, and approved its March 30 minutes unanimously before adjourning.

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Source: the Agricultural Commission meeting of May 13, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.