Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S652

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Relative to the Quabbin Watershed Advisory Committee

Impact

The proposed amendment to the Quabbin Watershed Advisory Committee is significant as it reflects a shift towards inclusivity in the representation of recreational and environmental interests. This committee plays a critical role in overseeing the Quabbin Watershed, which is an essential resource for drinking water supply in Massachusetts. By adding a snowmobiling organization, the bill seeks to balance environmental stewardship with recreational interests, promoting a more holistic approach to watershed management that acknowledges the various ways the watershed is utilized.

Summary

Bill S652, titled 'An Act relative to the Quabbin Watershed Advisory Committee', was presented by Senator Jacob R. Oliveira. The bill aims to amend Chapter 92A½ of the General Laws concerning the Quabbin Watershed Advisory Committee by adding representation from the Belchertown Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts. The inclusion of this organization intends to enhance stakeholder participation within the committee, ensuring that a broader range of interests, particularly those related to recreational activities such as snowmobiling, are represented.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the impact of snowmobiling and other recreational activities on the watershed's ecological health. Opponents may argue that introducing representation from a snowmobiling organization could lead to prioritizing recreational access over environmental protections within the watershed management practices. Conversely, supporters argue that such representation is vital for fostering dialogue and collaboration between conservation efforts and recreational use, highlighting the importance of considering diverse user perspectives in local governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA S555

Relative to the Quabbin Watershed Advisory Committee

MA H896

Relative to the Quabbin Watershed Advisory Committee

MA S447

Relative to the Quabbin watershed and regional equity

MA H897

Relative to the Quabbin watershed and regional equity

MA S505

Relative to the Ware river watershed advisory committee

MA S2812

Relative to the Quabbin watershed and regional equity

MA S1632

Relative to certain employees of the MBTA advisory board

MA H2681

Relative to certain employees of the MBTA advisory board

MA H3854

Relative formalizing Title V and Watershed regulations

MA H403

Relative to the rural policy advisory commission

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.