The historic farmland in our community is not just a piece of land; it is an essential part of our heritage, a haven for biodiversity, and a source of joy and identity for those who live nearby. This land is within the region of the Patuxet Wampanoag tribe who have inhabited this area formerly known as “The Jones River, and the property lies within the watershed of Hall’s Brook , Pine, Brewster, and Bassett Brooks which are all part of the Jones River watershed. Nestled within this precious acreage on historic centuries old farmland are wetlands and vernal pools virtually untouched by humans  for centuries. They are unique ecosystems that provide habitats for countless species. These areas are crucial for the survival of our planet's biodiversity, absorbing flood waters, filtering pollutants, and sustaining wildlife populations. However, there is a looming threat of development by an LLC that seeks to use the pasture adjacent to these wetlands as a parking lot and to install a commercial building and septic system to host large weddings with alcohol served, corporate events, a retail store, and a large 75 car parking lot , which is now putting this delicate wildlife habitat balance at risk.

The plans for development would not only disrupt these vital ecosystems but would also diminish the historic significance and scenic charm of our historic pasture. This land has witnessed generations of cultivation and community gatherings, and its transformation into a developed site would erase its cultural and historical value. This change doesn't just affect the landscape—it chips away at our community's heart and soul.

Moreover, development would further strain the neighborhood's infrastructure, impacting the quality of life for residents who cherish the serene environment and unique character of their community. Increased traffic, noise pollution, and the loss of green space would degrade the peaceful and cohesive neighborhood we call home.

We urge local authorities, planning boards, and developers to reconsider these plans to protect our historic farmland. We call for sustainable alternatives for preserving our pasture's rich history and environmental importance. We seek environmental protection for endangered wetlands and vernal pools under the Massachusetts  Division  of Fisheries and Wildlife Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program . Let us unite in saving this invaluable part of our heritage for future generations to come.

Please sign this petition to voice your support for preserving our historic farmland from development, and for the critical environmental protection for endangered wetlands and wildlife that depend on them for survival. Together, we can make a difference and stand up for the places that truly define us. 

If you are in support of our cause, please sign our petition and contact us at our email ; 

 

Preserve.Our.Pastures@gmail.com. 

We also encourage people to contact the Historic O’Neil Farm, The Duxbury Agricultural Commission, and Plymouth Wildlands Trust to voice your support of this and to ask more questions about what is being done to conservation land in Duxbury’s oldest dairy farm. 

 

Please visit these links for more insight: 

 

https://www.nsrwa.org/saving-duxburys-last-dairy-farm/

https://www.nsrwa.org/listing/historic-oneil-farm/​

 

https://www.mass.gov/orgs/masswildlifes-natural-heritage-endangered-species-program

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