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Adam's Point at sunset. Courtesy Bill Doucet
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Get ready for Summer Thunder! Motorcycle Week begins this weekend and culminates on Father’s Day. Often mentioned in the same breath as events in Daytona, Florida and Sturgis, South Dakota, these are three of the most popular motorcycle rallies in the country, drawing in over a million riders and motorcycle enthusiasts, combined, every year. It's a big economic boon for the entire state.
Often referred to as the Oldest National Motorcycle Rally, Motorcycle Week’s roots reach back to the summer of 1916, when a Gypsy Tour gathered for several days at Weirs Beach on the southern shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.
So if you happen to be out and about, be on the lookout for packs of bikers heading to and from the Lakes Region.
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The month of June was chosen for LGBTQ Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969. As a result, many pride events are held during this month to recognize the impact LGBT people have had in the world.
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This month, the Town has organized a Safe Zones Training for staff to be presented on Wednesday, June 19th from 2 PM – 4 PM at the Durham Town Hall, Council Chambers, 8 Newmarket Road, Durham, NH 03824. This training is being run by Lu Ferrell, Interim Director of the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs at UNH, and will cover topics such as the concepts and definitions of gender and sexuality, why it’s important to be aware of different identities, and how to work together. We’ve extended an invitation to the Oyster River School District to send up to 20 interested staff members.
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TOWN COUNCIL ADOPTS 2019-20 GOALS
At its meeting on Monday, June 3, 2018, the Town Council adopted its list of goals for 2019-20. View the final list of adopted goals HERE.
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FY 2018 DURHAM FINANCIAL AUDIT BY MELANSON HEATH & COMPANY - Town finances looking good.
At the Town Council meeting to be held on Monday evening, June 17, 2019, Council members will receive a presentation from the Town's auditing firm, Melanson Heath & Company, Nashua, NH, for the Fiscal Year ending December 31, 2018.
View the 2018 Audit document HERE
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PLANNING, ZONING, AND ASSESSING OFFICE - Closed 6/19/19 from 2-4 PM for Safe Zones Training
The Planning, Zoning & Assessing office will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, 2019 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. while the staff attends a Safe Zones Training class being held at the Town Office, Council Chambers. This training is being run by Lu Ferrell, Interim Director of the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs at UNH and will cover topics such as the concepts and definitions of gender and sexuality, why it’s important to be aware of different identities, and how to work together.
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DURHAM FARMERS' MARKET - Each Monday afternoon in the Sammy's downtown lot off Pettee Brook Lane
Be sure to stop by the Durham Farmers' Market being held on Monday afternoons at the Sammy's/Store 24 Parking Lot. A variety of locally produced farm products, prepared foods, and fine crafts will be available Mondays 2:15 - 6:00 PM. There will be regular as well as guest vendors with an increasing variety of vegetables available as the season progresses.
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ROTARY CLUB OF DURHAM-GREAT BAY WILL HOST DURHAM/UNH FIREWORKS IN 2019
On Wednesday, July 3, 2019, the Rotary Club of Durham-Great Bay will present The Durham-Great Bay Independence Day Celebration, at Wildcat Stadium, in conjunction with the University of New Hampshire and the Town of Durham. Gates open at 6PM with fireworks beginning at approximately 9PM.
In 2019, in partnership with the University of New Hampshire, Rotary is breathing life into this important community event. Rotary is seeking support from businesses in the area to help make this event a huge success. This is a wonderful community event that draws families from all surrounding communities including Lee, Madbury, Barrington, Newmarket, Dover, and beyond thus building a stronger community.
Both residents and local businesses can become a sponsor and most importantly, join Rotary for a fun evening of fireworks and celebrating our Nations 243rd birthday. We plan to have food, fun and games for children. Last year the Food Trucks and Bouncy Area were big hits. We will be working with Durham Recreation Department again for a great children’s fun area.
Donations are still needed so we can bring this event to you free of charge. To donate please go to: https://durhamgreatbayrotary.org/
For more information, contact Durham-Great Bay Rotary President Tom Boisvert at mailto:tports@comcast.net
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A number of students from Oyster River High School joined other police officers at the State House at 4:00AM for the final leg of the torch run into Durham.
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DURHAM/UNH POLICE HOST NEW HAMPSHIRE SPECIAL OLYMPICS; RUNNERS
There are twenty-five (25) legs of the 2019 New Hampshire Law Enforcement Torch Run where police officers make their way across New Hampshire. The officers seek donations for each mile they run which supports the games at UNH. The motto of the run for police is “we run for those that cannot!” Today, Friday, June 7th, the Durham Police Department School Resource Officer Holly Malasky and a number of students from Oyster River High School joined other police officers at the State House at 4:00AM for the final leg of the torch run into Durham. There they started the 35 mile run with the Flame of Hope and were joined by yet more police officers where they ran to the Durham Police Department where they enjoyed a BBQ and a shower. Later this evening a police cruiser parade comprised of vehicles from across New Hampshire guided the Flame of Hope to the podium where the large flame was lite signifying the opening of the Summer Games for the Special Olympians!
For athletes and officers alike, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is a story of success, love, respect and commitment between law enforcement officers and Special Olympic athletes.
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EVERSOURCE PROPOSED TREE TRIMMING/CUTTING ON DURHAM POINT ROAD DISCUSSED THIS PAST WEEK AT TOWN COUNCIL, NEXT WEEK AT PLANNING BOARD
The Town has received a number of questions and concerns from residents with respect to Eversource’s proposed tree cutting/trimming measures on Durham Point Road as part of its distribution line upgrade on this locally designated scenic road with 50+ year old telephone poles, which have reached end of life. Representatives from Eversource attended Monday night’s Council meeting to provide more information to the Town Council and public with respect to these activities.
Following the Council presentation, and a subsequent site walk/field review with the Planning Board that took place on Wednesday, June 5, Eversource representatives indicated they would reduce the 137 trees that had been proposed to be cut to 48 tree removals. These remaining trees will be discussed with the Planning Board in some detail at its meeting on June 12th. Conversations between the Town and Eversource regarding tree removal on Durham Point Road have sought to balance the scenic designation of the roadway with reliability and safety considerations, which have been routinely problematic in terms of reliability during heavy storm events.
When trees or limbs fall and become entangled in power lines, Durham Public Works cannot remove the trees from blocked roads. Only Eversource can do so ... and it takes time for Eversource to arrive resulting in extended roadway closures, which impedes the passage of emergency responders.
View the updates list of the proposed 48 tree removals HERE.
The June 12th Planning Board meeting will include presentations from Eversource to include:
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Courtesy presentation by Eversource about overall project. The following roads will be affected: Colony Cove Road, Cutts Road, Durham Point Road, Frost Drive, Langley Road, Longmarsh Road, Mathes Cove Road, Sandy Brook Drive, Sunnyside Drive, Winecellar Road, and several private drives off these roads.
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Public Hearing – Cutting of Trees on Durham Point Road. Review of proposal to trim and remove trees along Durham Point Road, a designated scenic road, in accordance with RSA 231:158. Approval by the Planning Board is required for cutting any tree within the Town right of way with a diameter of 4-3/4 inches or greater. Ian Farley, Arborist with Eversource. William Burleigh, Asplundh, contractor.
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Installation of New Poles in WCOD and SPOD. Request to install 13 new poles in the Wetland Conservation and Shoreland Preservation Overlay Districts in various locations off Durham Point, Longmarsh, and Winecellar Roads. Reviewed as Permitted Use B. William McCloy, Normandeau Associates, wetland scientist and agent for Eversource.
It is the Durham Planning Board that makes the decision concerning the level of cutting that will be allowed on a locally designated scenic road such as Durham Point Road.
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ADMIN. SELIG PENS OP ED REGARDING CLIMATE CHANGE IN SEACOAST NEW HAMPSHIRE AND MIAMI, FLORIDA - "The Next President Must be Ready to Hit the Ground Running on Climate Change"
Recently, Administrator Todd Selig submitted an Op Ed piece regarding the subject of climate change to both the Foster's Democrat (published on June 4, 2019), and the Miami Herald, as both Miami, Florida and Seacoast NH are already experiencing more frequent occurrences of flooding.
View Mr. Selig's Op Ed article printed in the Miami Herald HERE..
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DURHAM AND CAMBRIDGE GETTING READY TO KICK OFF CLIMATE CHANGE REMEMBRANCE PROJECT
The Town has partnered with the Strafford Regional Planning Commission, UNH Cooperative Extension, and Northeastern University Professor Tom Starr on a grant-funded project that will convey the potential impacts of climate change on the collective Durham community looking ahead into the next 100 years. Durham is the pilot community in NH to undertake this project. Cambridge, MA has also been selected. It's intended as both an innovative and creative project with the goal of educating residents/students/staff and visitors alike concerning the issue. To this end, we’ve identified strategic locations around town to highlight, have developed a description, map, and signage featuring an innovation or impact associated with climate change that is not only plausible, but likely to occur at the identified location if actions are not taken today to achieve a different collective future.
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TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE DISCUSSION LAST WEEK CONCERNING LED/BLINKING PEDESTRIAN WARNING SIGNS - Maybe a pilot project at Town Hall on busy Newmarket Road
There was significant discussion pertaining to the procurement of pedestrian warning signs that when activated by the push of the button on the post, flash that a person is crossing at this location. Much of the discussion focused upon the pedestrian intensive environment of the downtown. It was concluded that no signs should be placed in this area as the frequent activation would counter the intention of drawing vehicle operator’s attention rendering them unremarkable and ineffective. However in the appropriate locations such as the crosswalk at Church Hill and in front of Town Hall they may be very effective. These latter two sites are within the Historic District so there was concern about the impact of highly fluorescent/LED illuminated/blinking signs here.
Administrator Selig discussed a strategy that he had discovered in a number of other cities where a small bucket is placed on both sides of the crosswalk. In the bucket, colorful flags are stored and whenever a pedestrian crosses to the other side, they remove a flag and cross the street depositing the flag in the other bucket. While much skepticism was expressed, Public Works Director Mike Lynch is going to put his creative hat on and evaluating implement this strategy at Town Hall for a Pilot experiment. Mr. Selig has written to the Historic District Commission to obtain their feedback as well.
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SCHOOL'S OUT! - UNH OUTDOOR POOL SEASON OPENING EVENT
On Wednesday, June 19, 2019, UNH Campus Recreation will hold an Outdoor Pool season opening event from 4 - 7PM. Free pool entry! Music, lawn games, and concessions.
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UNH OUTDOOR POOL IS NOW OPEN!
The UNH outdoor swimming pool is now open for the season! The rates below for Durham Residents reflect a 15% subsidy from the Town of Durham valid towards both season memberships and Multi-Visit Passes. Proof of residency must be provided to receive this subsidized price. Passes need to purchased in person at Outdoor Pool or Hamilton Recreation Center.
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For more information regarding hours of operation for the Hamel Recreation Center, parking, and more, please call the UNH Campus Recreation Department at 862-2031 or visit their website at https://campusrec.unh.edu/outdoor-pool
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STRONG TURNOUT THIS WEEK FOR FIRST OF THREE COMMUNITY MEETINGS TO DISCUSS FUTURE OF TRASH/RECYCLING IN DURHAM
On Wednesday of this week the Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee and Durham Public Works held the first of three meetings to discuss the challenges of trash and recycling that are impacting our community and our country. Alex Freid, ORHS and UNH graduate and founder of the Post-Landfill Action Network/Trash to Treasures was present to offer information and answer questions. Some of the topics were PAYT {pay as you throw}, spring bulky pick up, the recycling market crash, and overall waste reduction measures.
There were a lot of great questions and concerns on these issues and others including effects of trash and recycling on the environment. The continued rising cost of disposal and the lack of value in the recycling market has created a budget challenge. As we move forward it will be important to make sure that the residents, Town staff, and elected officials are moving in the same positive direction that balances both financial and sustainable practices. There are two more nights of conversation slated for this fall and more information will be coming on the dates and location. We look forward to seeing more residents and hearing their questions and concerns on these important topics.
Learn more about the Post-Landfill Action Network HERE.
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TEENAGERS AND GRADUATION - Communicate with graduates and help them stay safe!
Its graduation time at Oyster River High School! Some people believe that the season of celebration comes with a rite of passage that includes the use of alcohol even with parental supervision. As a result, the time of celebration can turn dangerous and deadly as the number of car accidents caused by drinking and driving increases during the spring months.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration car accidents related to alcohol increase during the spring months of April, May and June, which are also the time of year when most proms and graduations occur. Another sobering figure is that car accidents are the leading cause of the death for teenagers in the United States, and nearly 40 percent of teenage car accidents are caused by drinking and driving. Therefore parents and teenagers should have a talk about expectations during the season of celebration to prevent alcohol related car accidents and other preventable dangers.
It is widely recognized that open and regular communication between parents and teenagers positively affects the decisions teenagers make. Accordingly, teenagers who have parents who set expectations are less likely to engage in drinking, drug use and sexual behavior. According to the National Institutes of Health the part of the brain that regulates risky behavior is not fully formed until age 25 and heavy alcohol consumption before that age can create negative long-term effects. Therefore even though parents feel they can protect teens in a supervised environment the use of alcohol can still lead to danger. https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=e6fe0bdb-8b5f-4661-9e1e-b60cf11d3bf6
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AT THIS WEEK’S MEETING, THE TOWN COUNCIL DISCUSSED AND SUPPORTED CHANGES PROPOSED BY THE WINTER CELEBRATION WORKING GROUP TO WHAT WAS FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE “ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY” - The new name will be FrostFest; maybe FfrostFest?
Durham has ushered in the winter season for many years with a festival, which included many seasonal activities and music. Last December, people came forward to express that some of the activities and symbols of the festival are oriented towards the Christmas holiday tradition, leaving some feeling excluded. In a special Town Council meeting there was discussion among Councilors and the public about what these symbols in particular actually mean. There is a fair amount of disagreement over what is considered secular and what is not. At that meeting a committee was formed to address the situation and to try to find ways of making the festival more hospitable to most people.
The committee made good progress on developing what members hope will be an evolving celebration, realizing that there is always room for change year over year. However, the committee came to the conclusion that in order to truly understand what inclusion actually means, it is important for the town to sponsor a community discussion about the topic. Members of the committee are passionate about the idea of communication being the cornerstone of this issue and hope that the town will provide funding for this purpose for early next year – likely in the range of $5,000 - $6,000. Mr. Selig will take this request into consideration as part of the budget development process this fall.
This year’s FrostFest will include the following items, all of which have been occurring already: Bonfire, S’more Station, Cookie Decorating, ORPP Craft Table, Sand Art Table, Ruby the Photo Bus, Ice Sculpture Durham Professional Firefighters Popcorn, Fire, and S’mores, Music, DPR Raffle, Candy Bar Hot Cocoa and Craft Works—Cookies, Coffee, & Hot Cider, UNH Gingerbread Man, Glowsticks.
All participants will be encouraged to think about how their particular activity can be inclusive. Also, this is not to say that other groups wishing to participate cannot do so.
The committee envisions having Santa present in a building for visiting and photo opportunities. As one committee member put it “He will be present but not presented” (not arriving during the evening by some conveyance).
The committee would like to string lights up on various items in the downtown area so that there will not be specific emphasis on the evergreen tree in Memorial Park. They are also thinking about hanging lighted stars or snowflakes on the light posts, taking the place of the wreaths.
Although these proposed changes seem minor in the grand scheme of things, the committee hopes that it conveys a willingness to be conscious of others and that it will draw more interested participants.
After discussion, the Durham Town Council ultimately supported the recommendations as presented by the Winter Celebration Committee with respect to this year’s FrostFest. The Parks and Recreation Committee, which organizes the event, will be taking a look at the recommendations in the coming weeks as it sets out to plan the event this winter.
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Volunteers celebrate the beautiful new perennial garden that they planted at the Milne Nature Sanctuary in honor of Lorus and Margery Milne. Courtesy Kenny Rotner
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RESTORING THE MILNE NATURE SANCTUARY
Last Friday and Saturday, Town volunteers prepped and planted a new perennial garden around the Milne memorial. Milne Committee member John Hart selected the plants to provide blooms all season long and to provide food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Before planting, volunteers worked in several yards of compost as a soil additive and then later as mulch for the plants. An initial watering, followed by regular rains, then watering by the Town DPW crew will ensure that the plants have a good start.
Two UNH Nature Groupie interns, Mindy Prieur and August (Gus) Muscato are working with Land Stewardship Coordinator, Ellen Snyder, on a variety of stewardship projects on Durham conservation lands for two weeks. This week they are helping at the Milne Sanctuary, pulling invasive plant seedlings in the forest understory, primarily Norway maple, glossy buckthorn, bush honeysuckles, roses, and autumn olive, followed by planting of native shrubs.
These efforts are part of restoring the health of the one-acre property that lies on the shores of College Brook, Oyster River, and Mill Pond, and which was given to the Town by Margery Milne as a nature sanctuary and a place where residents could enjoy quiet, reflective time in nature. The next phase includes guidance from UNH Nursery & Landscape Horticulture Specialist Cathy Neal on the feasibility of creating meadow habitat in the open areas. Extension County Forester Andy Fast will be visiting the site in a few weeks to provide input on removing the large Norway maples, which are preventing native species from thriving.
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GREEN GRASS AND CLEAR WATER
Did you know that you can have a healthy, green lawn that is both attractive and safer for the environment?
Some lawn care practices create local water quality problems. Excess nutrients (including nitrogen and phosphorus found in fertilizers) that run off our properties into nearby waterbodies can trigger harmful algal blooms. Many of us enjoy the time we spend working on our lawns and are willing to try new practices as long as our lawns continue to look good. Below are some simple and easy tips, customized for northern New England, that can lead to Green Grass & Clear Water.
Choose the right grass seed. The best seed mixes include low maintenance varieties with higher % of fine-leaf fescues and turf - or compact-type tall fescues, and lower % of Kentucky bluegrass and perennial rye grass.
Mow smart. Leave grass at least 3” high. Cut no more than one-third (1/3) of the blade each time you mow to encourage longer, stronger roots. Leave the grass clippings after mowing so they can return nutrients to the soil.
Have your soil tested. To learn more about specific characteristics and needs of your lawn, contact UNH Cooperative Extension HERE.
Don’t overwater. 1” of water per week (from rain or irrigation) is usually enough. Overwatering can cause nutrients to move out of root zones and into waterbodies or groundwater.
Only if your lawn requires added nutrients from fertilizer:
Avoid overapplying. Measure the area where you plan to apply and calculate the square footage. For lawns 10+ years old, apply half (1/2) the amount recommended for your square area one time per season. New lawns may need another application. Apply no more than 4 times per season.
Choose the right fertilizer. Select fertilizers with zero or low phosphorus unless a soil test says otherwise. Slow release nitrogen fertilizer is generally preferable. Over applying fertilizer (any type) can cause water quality issues.
Know when and where to apply. Apply only after spring “green up” and before mid-September. Avoid applying in mid-summer. Never apply near waterbodies or storm drains.
View more details about these tips and others HERE.
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WHILE THE WEATHER MAY BE BEAUTIFUL, WATER TEMPERATURES ARE STILL VERY COLD – Use caution if going into the water...
The warm air temperatures on Friday and into this weekend may cause unsuspecting people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only in the lower 50s across Lake Winnipesaukee, and in the lower 50s in the state's smaller lakes and rivers.
Cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. When the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could loose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple tasks. Anyone on small boats, canoes, or kayaks should plan accordingly if recreating this weekend and use caution to avoid this threat.
Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket!
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SUBMISSIONS FOR INCLUSION IN THE WEEKLY FRIDAY UPDATES - Here's how to submit something...
Quite frequently we have individuals or organizations email or call to find out if they can get something in to the Friday Updates. We do appreciate submissions and photographs, but anyone wishing to contribute items are asked to please send them not later than the Thursday prior to the publication. Also, when sending items, please email to both Administrator Selig (mailto:tselig@ci.durham.nh.us) AND Administrative Assistant Jennie Berry (mailto:jberry@ci.durham.nh.us) as one or the other (or both at times) may be out of the office on a Friday. Photographs should be sent in the original size and should not be cropped, resized, or altered in any way.
Also...if you know of others who would find the weekly "Friday Updates" of interest, please pass them along. Folks can sign up on the Town website HERE, on the left side in blue click "Friday Updates", then enter their email address and first and last name.
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STATE OF NH'S NEW PUBLIC WORKS MEMORIAL - Durham sent a dump truck and staff representing the community to this week's unveiling in Concord
This past Wednesday DPW Director Mike Lynch, along with Buildings and Grounds staff Ray LaRoche and Sam Hewitt, attended the Public Works Memorial Dedication in Concord. Public Works staff from around the State attended, lining up multiple trucks, for the dedication and reveal of the large black granite memorial created for Public Works employees who lost their lives on the job. The monument is located on the front lawn of the New Hampshire Department of Transportation building, located at 7 Hazen Drive in Concord. There was a great turnout and the sun ended up shining when the program began. If you are in Concord please stop by and see the memorial.
View other photos from the event HERE.
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ANNUAL ORIENTATION FOR TOWN BOARD, COMMITTEE, AND TRUSTEE CHAIRS/VICE CHAIRS AND OTHER INTERESTED MEMBERS - Mark your calendars for an exciting discussion with Mr. Selig on June 19th!
On Wednesday, June 19, 2019, from 7:00 - 8:30 PM in the Council chambers at Town Hall, Administrator Todd Selig will hold an orientation session for chairs, vice chairs, and other committee members of the various Town boards, commissions, and committees.
The purpose of this annual orientation is to provide chairs, vice chairs, and other committee members with information on the proper structure of meetings, the role of the committee chair, vice chair, secretary, alternates, and Council representatives, as well as outlining the basics of the Right-to-Know Law, including agenda preparation and posting, minutes of meetings, and e-mail correspondence.
At the conclusion of the orientation, Administrator Selig will open the floor for a question and answer session.
All board and committee members are welcome to attend, so please mark your calendars and plan to attend this important and informative orientation.
An agenda for this orientation can be viewed HERE.
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TODD TURNS 50!
Today Administrator Todd Selig turned 50 today! He was razzed just a little about it. A resident pointed out to him this morning that, "You're old as dirt!" There were a few 50 streamers hung in his office and on his door. Staff had ice cream cake and cookies this afternoon in the Council chambers where he was asked to display the iconic red hat marking the big 5-0, which has been passed down over the years from a few of the women here at Town Hall. He kind-heartedly took it in the spirit in which it was intended. :-)
Happy birthday Todd! Enjoy the rest of your day and have a wonderful next decade.
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TOWN OFFICES CLOSED ON THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2019
All Town Offices will be closed in observance of the Independence Day holiday on Thursday, July 4, 2019.The holiday curbside collection schedule also follows.
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JULY 4TH HOLIDAY REFUSE AND RECYCLING COLLECTION
All Town offices will be closed for Independence Day on Thursday, July 4, 2019. There will be *NO COLLECTION ON THURSDAY- DELAYED ONE DAY REST OF WEEK- THURSDAY’S COLLECTION WILL BE ON FRIDAY AND THERE WILL BE NO COMMERCIAL COLLECTION ON FRI 7/5/19.
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INPUT REQUESTED FOR SRPC METRO PLAN PUBLIC OUTREACH SURVEY
The Strafford Regional Planning Commission is releasing its Metro Plan public input survey so it can hear from everyone. The survey will help SRPC to understand the needs and challenges of the transportation network from the best source possible - the people that live and work in the region every day and use the system most.
Input for the survey is due on Friday, June 13, 2019 and will take approximately 15 minutes.
Access the survey HERE.
Contact Nancy O'Connor, program content coordinator, at 603-994-3500 with questions.
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BUNKER CREEK BRIDGE REPLACEMENT - Here's the plan for road work and a road closure on busy Rt. 4...
As many in Durham know, the Route 4 bridge crossing Bunker Creek has failed and is scheduled to be replaced commencing this summer through project completion in September of 2020. During this summer’s activity the tasks to be accomplished will result in one lane closure that will be governed by on-site flaggers.
Representatives from SPS Engineering of New England, the firm retained by the State of New Hampshire to design and build the replacement bridge, attended Durham’s Department Head meeting to discuss their strategy designed to lessen traffic challenges.
There will be a period next summer of 2020 when Route 4 will be closed entirely requiring strategic thinking for police and fire to ensure all segments of Durham will be professionally serviced during this period. The length of the closure has yet to be determined but could be five (5) days to fourteen (14) days as SPS Engineering are proposing 24 hour construction to lessen the impact but negotiations with the neighborhood are ongoing and not finalized.
There will be further updates regarding this project as information is learned from the State of New Hampshire.
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Interns Mindy Prieur and Gus Muscato with Town volunteer John Nachilly celebrate the near completion of a new trail bridge at Doe Farm. Courtesy Ellen Snyder
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NEW BRIDGES AT DOE FARM
Doe Farm on Bennett Road is a major focus of stewardship this summer. Scouts have installed picnic tables, benches, and sign posts, trails have been brushed out, and this week two new bridges were built crossing wet and rooty sections of a trail. Conservation Commission member and dedicated volunteer, John Nachilly, led the effort assisted by interns Mindy Prier and Gus Muscato, with help from Rob Sullivan and Ellen Snyder. Middleton Lumber delivered the pressure treated lumber to the clearing at Doe Farm. DPW brought several loads of gravel and granite pieces, which are used as part of the bridge construction as well as filling in rooty areas. While constructing the bridges, several visitors expressed their appreciation for the new bridges, including a woman with her dog and a mountain biker. Starting June 18th a SCA Americorps crew will be building four more bridges on trails at Doe Farm.
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LOW & MODERATE INCOME HOMEOWNERS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF - An opportunity for qualifying Durham residents.
The “Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief” application is now available. This application can be picked up at the Planning & Zoning Office at the Durham Town Hall or found online HERE. It should be submitted to the State of NH Department of Revenue Administration prior to June 30, 2019.
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HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY - Morning of Saturday, October 26, 2019
The 2019 Household Hazardous Waste Day will be held at the Department of Public Works facility located at 100 Stone Quarry Drive. As in the past, all hazardous waste will be collected by appointment only, between 8 - 11:30 AM. To register, you must call DPW at 603-868-5571 or mailto:publicworks@ci.durham.nh.us. REMEMBER - THE MAXIMUM COLLECTED PER HOUSEHOLD IS FIVE GALLONS. NO EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS, RADIOACTIVE WASTE, ASBESTOS, SILVEX OR INFECTIOUS/BIOLOGICAL WASTE WILL BE ACCEPTED.
NOT ACCEPTED AT HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY - LATEX AND OLD-BASED PAINTS, MOTOR OIL, AND ANTI-FREEZE. These items can be brought up to the Transfer Station with a permit throughout the year. Latex paints must be dried out first, motor oil, anti-freeze and oil-based paints can go up as is. Typically, hazardous waste is categorized as toxic, ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or otherwise hazardous. Please check the manufacturer's label.
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A NEW SCAM PORTRAYING DEAL FROM EVERSOURCE
Several Durham residents have received calls purporting to be Eversource that offer a 15% reduction if the user will pay in advance. One resident even noted that the caller ID stated “Eversource” but hung up and contacted Eversource who acknowledged that the call was in fact a scam. Once again, reputable companies and governmental entities DO NOT call in this fashion asking for information or offering “deals”!
Once again, Durham residents are cautioned about the lengths scammers will go to separate you from your hard earned money. If there is any question, please contact Durham Police at 868-2324.
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RECYCLING SCHEDULE REMINDER... As of February 2019 curbside recycling has been on an alternating schedule, one week bottles, cans and glass, the following week paper and cardboard. There are still many folks combining their recyclables. Please refer to your newsletter or see schedule HERE.
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SWAP SHOP VOLUNTEERS ARE APPRECIATED! WHY NOT BECOME ONE?
We need volunteers!
We have had a recent shift downturn in the number of volunteers at the Swap Shop.
There have been times when no volunteer has been available to help residents.
We are already starting to close the Swap Shop early due to understaffing.
With more volunteers the Swap Shop will continue for all residents!
It’s an easy commitment of 3 hours and you get to be the first to see interesting items!
Call or text 603-969-4732. Email Cristina at mailto:foggdrive@yahoo.com
Drop off items need to be in good condition on Saturdays and Tuesdays until 2:00.
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DURHAM ROAD RESURFACING PROGRAM - Check to see if your road/street is on the list for 2019.
This year’s road resurfacing program includes an asphalt shim, 1”overlay, and shoulder gravel back-up/widening where applicable on the following Town roads…
- Colony Cove Road
- Edgerly-Garrison Road
- Edgewood Ext.
- Ellison Lane
- Faculty Road
- Longmarsh Road
- Rosemary Lane
- Stagecoach Road
- Technology Drive
- Thompson Lane
- Willey Creek Road Main Street from Pettee Brook Ln. to Roundabout
The project will also include the following additional work…
- Durham Point Road from the end of the NHDOT project to Sumners Corner.
- Top coat Crommets Creek Bridge.
- Rebuild the speed table on Edgewood Ext. once paving is completed there.
- Cold plane 400 ft of faculty Road prior to paving.
- Top coat Cedar Point Road.
- Shim and top coat the Bagdad Road/Littlehale Pond/dam/culvert area.
The sidewalk replacement work consists of Faculty Road and Durham Point Road and repairs to tip downs on existing sidewalks as needed.
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ST. GEORGE'S CHURCH HAS COMMUNITY GARDENS AVAILABLE FOR RENT
Two sizes: 4' by 8' and 4' by 4'. Plot, soil and water supplied. The gardens are located at the rear of the property (One Park Court) just off the parking lot. For information and to get a rental agreement: 603-868-2785 or mailto:officestg@comcast.net
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DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION ANNUAL JUNE PICNIC - Sunday, June 16 2019 - 5PM to Sunset
Not far from Mahomet’s (Moharimet’s) planting ground on the fertile lands between the fresh water portions of the Lamprey and Oyster River is a driveway bordered by massive maples and old stone walls just off Packer’s Falls Road. Turn down this ancient drive and step back into the eighteenth century to join members of the Durham Historic Association for their annual June Picnic at the Pendergast Garrison House, home of Joe and Ann Vaillancourt. Pack up your family, guests, and picnic supper and come soak it all in!
See you at 151 Packers Falls Road for our annual celebration of Durham’s unique history and the citizens who help keep that history alive.
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FOOD FRIENDLY YARDS - The Durham Agricultural Commission can be a great resource.
The Durham Agricultural Commission encourages Durham residents to produce their own food through the Food Friendly Yards program. We are a resource for residents wishing to learn more about growing fruit, starting vegetable gardens and creating pollinator habitat in their own yards. We can provide information about raising poultry and other livestock where appropriate. Each year we host a Food Friendly Yards Tour on Farm Day, inviting residents to visit and learn from their neighbors.
For more information or questions, mailto:foodfriendlyyards@gmail.com
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BAY ROAD CLOSURE IN NEWMARKET DELAYED FOR ONE MONTH
A few weeks ago the Town of Newmarket had informed us that they will be replacing a culvert at 110 Bay Road this summer. This road work will require Bay Road to be closed at this location and was originally scheduled for approximately July 15th- August 26th. At this time it is expected to be pushed out for another month. There will be no through traffic during this time, the Town of Newmarket will be responsible for signage and message boards alerting travelers of the road closure. Below is a map of the location of the work.
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DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION "ARTIFACT OF THE WEEK"
This old photograph shows an old meeting room that doubled as a basketball court. Where is this?
Answer: This room is the current space of the Durham Historic Association Museum! It is located on the 2nd floor of the brick Old Town Hall building at the intersection of Newmarket Road and Main Street / Dover Road. Visit the museum every Saturday and Tuesday between 1-4 p.m. until Labor Day and see artifacts and exhibits related to Durham's 400+ year history.
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TOWN OF DURHAM FACEBOOK AND TWITTER ACCOUNTS
Did you know that the Town has a Facebook & Twitter account and frequently posts Durham & UNH news, happenings, and articles of interest in our area and the seacoast?
Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
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Durham Parks and Recreation, its Director and Committee, strive to offer a wide range of quality programs, parks, and facilities that encourage all community members to participate in healthy, fun, and enriching activities. Together, they celebrate the essential role public recreation plays in fostering a cohesive and vibrant community.
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R.E.A.C.H. SUMMER DAY CAMP - July 8 - August 9, 2019
R.E.A.C.H. Summer Day Camp is a community-based summer camp collaboration between Oyster River Cooperative School District and Durham Parks & Recreation. It meets Monday- Thursday, July 8 through August 9 at the Oyster River Middle School. Campers can participate in a morning ORCSD program, and then have the option to transition to afternoon camp with Durham Parks & Recreation. Since Oyster River is providing lunch for all school-aged kids, there is no need to pack one! To complete the week, Durham Parks and Recreation is also offering Friday Field Trips.
Read more about the program in the April 2019 Celebrate Durham blog HERE.
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY UPCOMING EVENTS
Beginning June 10th
Come in and register for the Summer Reading Program, "A Universe of Stories", for both children and adults. Summer Calendar coming soon.
June 24th, at 6:00pm
Save the date for our first summer reading program, event!" Chasing the Moon" A film By Robert StoneSneak Peek Screening in partnership with PBS
June 28th, at 10:30 am
Join us for the Summer Reading Kick off "Storywalk Carnival" There will be a craft, face painting, Bubbles and more! Rain or shine.All are Welcome.
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HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A Brief History of Durham, NH 1600 - 1976 (A little volume that was the Heritage Project of the Durham Historic Association Bicentennial celebration)
Preface - "Since before God made the first little green apples, oysters have probably been growin in the Oyster River; and some of the largest and juiciest to be found anywhere in the world are still growing here today. The following vignettes from rollicking history of Durham town on the Oyster River are therefore presented between the shells of an oyster."
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1914 - On the 3rd floor of Thompson Hall Ex-President Taft lectured, in the then girls' gymnasium on his life in the White House. Being very large he got off the train backwards. The Boston 5:18 Express stopped for him. Taft's forgotten umbrella was sent to him the next day.
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Resident Mike Pazdon caught this snapping turtle sunning on a rock in his yard last Sunday.
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Congratulations to this year's Oyster River High School graduating class. ORHS commencement is tonight at 6 PM at the UNH Whittemore Center. We are fortunate to have the state’s flagship University and its many resources as an integral part of our collective community.
The weather this coming weekend looks just awesome! Enjoy!
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