Dover Seeks Public Input on Conservation and Open Space Master Plan Update

Photo byAustin DistelonUnsplash

DOVER, NH — The City of Dover is inviting residents to engage in the update of its Conservation and Open Space chapter of the Master Plan through an interactive online platform. The city has launched a visual story map, accessible at rebrand.ly/DoverStoryMap, which aims to gather public feedback and provide an educational tool on the importance and scope of conservation and open space within the community.

Updated for the first time since 2012, this chapter of the Master Plan focuses on guiding the city's land protection and resilience strategies for the upcoming decade. The visual story map utilizes Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to illustrate various aspects of the city’s conservation areas through different analytical perspectives, helping residents understand the complex interplay of ecological and urban development factors.

During a recent episode of the city’s Dover Download podcast, which can be listened to at bit.ly/461POxJ, Planning’s Outreach Coordinator Erin Bassegio, along with Resilience Manager Jackson Kaspari, discussed the significance of the update. "This is a prime opportunity not only to learn about our ongoing projects but also to voice opinions on where conservation efforts should be concentrated in the future," said Bassegio.

The steering committee overseeing this initiative includes representatives from the City Council, Planning Board, Conservation Commission, and Forest Management Subcommittee, among others. With a budget of $35,000, authorized by the City Council for this purpose, the consulting firm Resilience Planning & Design, LLC has been contracted to facilitate the update process.

The story map created by Resilience Planning includes a survey asking residents to weigh in on conservation priorities such as groundwater quality, hazard mitigation land, and wildlife habitats. It also queries the public on issues of accessibility, improvements needed for conserved lands, and areas that should be targeted for future conservation.

One of the story map’s features shows conservation-valued lands and overlays areas that have been developed, providing a visual reference for potential future conservation efforts aimed at connecting existing preserved spaces.

The Planning Board aims to review a final draft of the updated chapter this fall, with a public hearing scheduled before any adoption. This proactive approach underscores Dover’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its green spaces in alignment with community values and ecological needs.

For more details on the Conservation and Open Space chapter update or to provide feedback, residents are encouraged to contact the Planning Department at 603-516-6008.