Friday Updates - April 10, 2026

Friday, April 10, 2026

The Easter eggs all ready to go for last weekend's Egg Hunt. Courtesy, Todd Selig

Warmer temps coming next week!

Please be advised that Durham Public Works, in conjunction with Orion Tree Service, will be removing several trees along Madbury Road between Lundy Lane and Hampshire Avenue on Tuesday, April 14 and Wednesday April 15. Both North and South traffic will be detoured via Lundy Lane and Hampshire Avenue. Northbound traffic from Emerson Road will be directed South to Lundy Lane, and through the detour.

Access to driveways and residences within the detour area will be available for local traffic only.

We thank you for your patience and understanding with the Town’s efforts to improve Madbury Road. Please direct all questions to Durham Public Works by calling 603-868-5578 or emailing publicworks@ci.durham.nh.us.  

REPORT FROM THIS WEEK’S LEADERSHIP TEAM MEETING

The Leadership Team met on April 7 and discussed, among many items, the annual audit process, plans for recruiting a new business manager following Gail Jablonski's planned October retirement. The group noted that auditors have finished their field work and are awaiting final library information, and discussed monitoring and closing certain legacy capital accounts where appropriate.

Council Goals, Budget Pressures, and Regionalization

Administrator Selig updated the group on Council goal setting, including compiling department and board goal reports for Council review and considering strategies to slow projected tax rate increases. Discussion focused on potential regional collaborations in municipal services with neighboring communities, potential use of attrition where possible in departments such as police, fire, and public works to drive down costs, and the importance of early budget planning with updated projections from Strafford County and the Oyster River Cooperative School District once available.

Housing, Land Use, and Community Perceptions

Planner Michael Behrendt led a detailed discussion on Durham’s housing challenges, balancing the need for additional housing with neighborhood character and open space protection. The group reviewed potential strategies that include adding density downtown and in mixed‑use areas, modestly increasing density in existing neighborhoods, and carefully structured (requiring revised zoning) conservation subdivisions in rural areas, while also addressing potential inaccurate public perceptions that town government is inefficient or “bloated."

Downtown Durham and Business Climate

The team discussed ongoing challenges facing downtown businesses, including national challenges (mail order/big box competition) for traditional downtowns, reduced UNH enrollment (and reduced staffing) presence, and the loss of key services such as Rite Aid. 

Clerk’s Office, Voting Changes, and Dog Licensing

Town Clerk Rachel Deane reported strong transaction activity, noted that dog licensing renewals are lagging slightly behind last year, and will be sending additional reminders ahead of the April 30 deadline. She also briefed the team on new state voter ID requirements following passage of SB 323, emphasizing the need for voter education efforts, particularly for students who may not have easy access to birth certificates or other documentation.

Public Works, Roads, and Waste Collection

Public Works Director Rich Reine reported on the transition to automated solid waste collection with Casella, including resident selection of new container sizes, a three‑week semi‑automated transition, and integration of commercial recycling into regular Monday–Thursday routes. He also described upcoming neighborhood outreach for upcoming road reclamation projects, tree removal work associated with the Madbury Road project, and operational adjustments such as suspending roadside spraying of Japanese Knotweed within the ROW on Mathis Cove Road while monitoring for potential vehicular safety issues and cutting back Japanese Knotweed there as needed.

Library Programming, Fundraising, and E‑Waste Collection

Library staff reported continued success with programs and outreach, including an upcoming e‑waste collection event on March 18 at the library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The library’s annual appeal raised nearly $61,000 this year, significantly above typical totals, which will support expanded services and programming for residents of all ages.

Technology, ERP, and Website Redesign

IT Director Luke Vincent reported that the IT team handled approximately 250 support tickets last month and is moving ahead with evaluation of possible new Town financial software systems. He also noted ongoing work on a redesigned town website, with a pause on adding new content to the current site until the new platform is launched, and collaboration with assessing staff on tax map updates and a new public map viewer.

Parks, Recreation, and Environmental Initiatives

Land Stewardship Coordinator Veronique Ludington highlighted upcoming environmental and community initiatives, including a BioBlitz event at Oyster River Forest on May 17 and a Sunday cleanup at Wagon Hill Farm in partnership with the dog‑walking community. She will be sending out a press release and opening registration for the BioBlitz, and coordinating with the library and others to place informational materials for public education.

Police Department Outreach and Recruitment Video

Deputy Police Chief Jack Dalton provided updates on departmental outreach, parking initiatives, and an upcoming recruitment and educational video that will highlight the department’s work and accreditation process. The video is expected to be completed by the end of the month and will support ongoing recruitment and public information efforts.

Just a friendly nudge (and a tail wag) to Durham Dog Owners. All dogs 3 months and older must be licensed each year in accordance with New Hampshire law. The annual license period runs May 1–April 30. Licensing your dog helps ensure lost pets can be quickly reunited with their owners and helps the town remain in compliance with state law. Thank you for doing your part! Please license your dog by April 30 to avoid late fees.

Click HERE to renew your dog license online. Dog licenses can be completed online for your convenience. A valid rabies vaccination is required. Rabies certificates may be uploaded during the online process or emailed to rdeane@ci.durham.nh.us. Once submitted online or by mail, your license and tag will be processed and mailed to you. You are also welcome to visit the Clerk’s Office during normal business hours if you prefer to license your dog in person.

License Fees

Unaltered Male or Female: $10.00

Spayed or Neutered Dog: $7.50

Senior Citizen Owner (65+) – first dog: $2.00

VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES

Consider becoming a volunteer member of a local board, commission or committee. It's a wonderful way to become active in local affairs affecting our community!

The Durham Town Council is seeking interested residents of the Town of Durham who have the ability, desire, and time needed to fill the vacancies listed below.

Interested citizens may stop in or contact the Administrator’s office at kedwards@ci.durham.nh.us to obtain a board application form. You can see more information on vacancies at https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/volunteer.

DRUG TAKE BACK DAY IS APRIL 25

The Durham Police Department will partner with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10AM to 2PM, to take unused, expired, and unwanted prescription medication for proper and safe disposal. Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue. Proper disposal of unneeded drugs saves lives and protects the environment and our overall community. 

Although Saturday is Drug Take Back Day, Durham Police participate in this program every day. There is a drop box in the lobby of the police station where you can drop your medications at any time. If our lobby is closed during non-business hours, simply use the call box next to our front door to contact an officer and they will be happy to help. Please, no needles or liquids!

2026 Transfer Station Permit stickers are available at Durham Public Works or the Town Clerk/ Tax Collector’s Office at Town Hall. This permit sticker is required for entry and is available free of charge for Durham residents.

The permit stickers also allow an extra hour of free parking downtown in the Bobcat Corner lot and along Main Street in front of the shops between Pettee Brook Lane and Madbury Rd.

The Easter Bunny was popular at the Parks & Rec Egg Hunt last Saturday. Courtesy, Rachel Gasowski, Parks & Rec Director

THE DURHAM BUSINESS ASSOCIATION IS SEEKING DURHAM BUSINESS OWNERS

The Durham Business Association is now meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. The meetings are held at Clark’s Bistro at 5:15 pm. Anyone who has a business in town is welcome to join. 

The Durham Business Association works to support the businesses in town.  This past year they hosted the window decorating contest, mailed out bingo cards for businesses, and tabled at events in town such as Durham Day and Halloween Trick-or-Treat.

They are working on issues such as parking, increasing visibility of businesses and highlighting businesses. If you are interested in finding out more, check out the Facebook page HERE. 

THE SWAP SHOP IS OPEN!

The Swap Shop, located at the Durham Transfer Station, makes it possible to pass along items you no longer need and that your neighbors may appreciate using. Swap Shop hours are Saturdays and Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm. When possible, the Swap Shop opens at 7:30 am. It closes at 2:30 pm so that everything can be put away before the Transfer Station closes at 3:00 pm. If the doors to the Swap Shop are open, it is open. However, please do not drop off items after 2:30 pm or when no one is at the Swap Shop to greet you.

Everything that is brought to the Swap Shop should be clean, have all its parts, and work. The primary mission is to keep items out of the landfill, so your consideration is important.

Clean is key! There is no way for items to be cleaned at the Swap Shop. Dirty and stained items often end up going to the landfill. Would you give this item to a friend in its current condition?

Items should have all of their parts. Rarely does someone come looking for items that do not have the parts that enable them to work. This particularly applies to tools and children’s toys. 

Items with many parts, often toys, should be sealed in, clear if possible, bags so that the parts stay together.

The Swap Shop does not store large items, and they stay out in all weather conditions. This is why the Shop cannot take upholstered items. Some items are more appropriate for Oyster River-Pass It On-No Sales (See link HERE) where your items can be seen and the future owners will come to your house to pick them up. This should be considered for items of value, as well as all baby items-strollers, baby bouncers, swings and walkers, ride-on toys, high chairs, etc. Once they have been out in the rain, they lose their appeal.

There is no room to store holiday items throughout the year. Please save them until 6 weeks before the holiday or for a time when the Swap Shop announces it will take these items. 

For more information on the Swap Shop, click HERE.

The Trustees of the Trust Funds are pleased to announce that, as of January 2026, the Doe Farm has been re-certified as a sustainably managed forest by the American Tree Farm System, the oldest and largest family forest conservation program in the United States. Located on Bennett Road and featuring nearly a half mile of frontage on the Lamprey River, the Doe Farm offers town residents opportunities to recreate in a diverse forest environment, featuring towering pines, mixed hardwood stands, and a vintage Norway spruce plantation.

A recently completed forest management plan, prepared by licensed professional foresters Charles Moreno and Durham resident Nicholas Lanzer, lays the foundation for future management of the Doe Farm. It addresses control of invasive plant species that threaten native plant regeneration, actions to mitigate the impacts of climate change and other practices aimed at maintaining a healthy forest ecosystem. A pdf of the 2025 management plan is available on the Doe Farm website HERE.

Questions about the management plan should be directed to Ted Howard, Chair of the Trustees of the Trust Funds, the town committee responsible for the management of the Doe Farm, at this email address: trustees@ci.durham.nh.us

The cost of preparing the plan was generously supported by the Strafford Regional Planning Commission and the Lamprey River Advisory Committee. In addition, UNH student volunteers, Luke Nugent, Matt Rice, Evan Pauling, and Jack Boudreau, and their instructor, Heidi Guigere, assisted Trustee Chair Ted Howard in collecting important forest data used in the planning effort. Town GIS program administrator, Steve Lutterman, provided additional important support.

Now that the egg hunts are over and the candy’s gone, what can you do with those hollow, reusable plastic shells?

Why plastic Easter eggs aren’t recyclable

Many plastic eggs are made from low-grade or mixed plastics, sometimes with hinges or metallic coatings that complicate recycling.  In addition, because they are lightweight and small in size, plastic eggs often fly into and jam sorting machinery at our recycling facility, the leading cause of worker injuries.

Reduce and reuse

Plastic eggs are an example of a product designed for one moment of joy, but can last hundreds of years in a landfill. So before you buy more next Easter, consider:

• Buy secondhand:Look for plastic eggs at thrift stores or community swaps.
• Go compostable:Consider compostable, paper-mâché Easter eggs, available online.

Donate your plastic eggs

Both the Newmarket Recreation Department and our very own Durham Parks and Rec Department will accept donations of plastic eggs, to be used in next year’s egg hunts. 

As a partner in sustainability, the Durham Parks and Rec Department went one step further at the 2026 Annual Egg Hunt. They put out several collection bins for kids and families to put their opened plastic eggshells in (after they collected what was inside) so the Parks and Rec team can reuse them for future egg hunts. (See photo above.) The majority of participants who attended the event did recycle them back rather than taking them home with them. 

Brought to you by the IWMAC Committee 

Questions about recycling or composting? Email us at: DurhamRecycles603@gmail.com

Check us out on Instagram: sustainable.durham.nh

Not sure if an item can be recycled? Check here: www.Recyclesmartma.org

Want to learn more about the Swap Shop? Click HERE.

Ticks are increasingly common in Durham’s forests, fields, and backyards, but effective management doesn’t require heavy pesticide use. The most reliable, environmentally-friendly practices include keeping grass trimmed and removing leaf litter in high‑use areas, creating wood‑chip borders between lawns and woods, and using personal protection like repellents and tick checks.

While pesticide sprays may seem like a quick solution, they often harm pollinators and other beneficial insects, contaminate soil and water, and disrupt the natural predators that help keep tick populations in check. By choosing low‑impact, integrated approaches, residents can reduce tick encounters while protecting the health of Durham’s ecosystems.

Spring is one of the busiest time for field work in our conservation properties, getting trails ready, cleaning up, pulling invasives, installing new benches and more!

Come for a few hours to help us, a fun way to meet new outdoors enthusiasts and maybe discover a new property or trails to enjoy in the future.

Check out the scheduled workdays HERE, or reach out directly to Veronique at vludington@ci.durham.nh.us if you'd like to help another time or become a trail steward.

The Durham Police and Fire Departments had a great time connecting with the community at the Annual Egg Hunt hosted by Durham Parks and Recreation. The event saw an incredible turnout, with families and children from across the community coming together to enjoy the festivities.

Officers and firefighters enjoyed interacting with attendees, helping create a fun, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone involved.

Thank you to Durham Parks and Recreation for organizing such a successful event, and to everyone who came out to participate and make it a memorable day!

Be aware that wildlife are beginning to have babies this time of year. If you are concerned about baby animals on your property, you can contact NH Fish and Game at 603-868-1095. For additional information about wildlife and its habitat, click HERE.

NEW HAMPSHIRE CLEAN WATER WEEK 2026 IS APRIL 12 - 18

Have you ever wondered what happens to water after you’ve brushed your teeth, washed some dishes, or used the toilet? If you have, then mark your calendar for Clean Water Week 2026! This initiative encourages residents to learn about the “From Rain to Drain and Back Again” process.

Clean Water Week is a week-long event observed from April 12-18, 2026, held across the state, showcasing wastewater treatment facilities and the staff that keep them running 24/7/365. Learn about the science, math, and engineering involved that are necessary to keep New Hampshire waterways clean. Understand why this infrastructure is critical to maintain in order for communities to thrive. Find out what role you can play in keeping wastewater infrastructure safe and rivers pollutant free!

Learn more about Clean Water Week 2026 HERE.

Stop in at the Durham Public Works, Wastewater Facility located at 50 Piscataqua Road (U.S. Route 4) on Saturday April 18 from 8:00 AM-12:00 PM for tour of the wastewater treatment facility or contact Superintendent, Matt Collins, for more specific information about the Durham Wastewater Treatment Facility: mcollins@ci.durham.nh.us (603) 868-2274

A Spring day at Old Landing looking at the General Sullivan House. Courtesy, Jean McPeak

WASTEWATER DIVISION POSITION OPEN – Treatment and Collection System Operator

We are seeking a highly qualified team member to join an exceptional team of public works professionals to serve in the role of Wastewater Operator. 

Durham Public Works’ Wastewater Division works closely with its partner, the University of New Hampshire, to provide wastewater collection and treatment services to both the Town and the University. The Department is fully integrated and progressive, using modern equipment and facilities to achieve its goals. The Treatment Plant is wrapping up a $3 million process and equipment upgrade project as part of its detailed Capital Improvement Plan, which included the reconstruction of its primary and secondary clarifiers, in addition to the aeration tanks.

In this important role, you will report to the Chief Operator of the Public Works, Wastewater Division, and undertake challenging and rewarding work involving the operation, construction, and maintenance of the Town’s Wastewater Treatment and Collection System.

This full-time position offers excellent medical, dental, life, and disability coverage, paid time off, and eligibility in the State of New Hampshire retirement plan. Salary range for this position is from $27.84 to $35.16/hr, depending upon qualifications.

The successful candidate will have a minimum of two years of experience in municipal wastewater-related fields, a strong knowledge of various mechanical systems, including pumps, electrical, computer, and SCADA systems associated with the treatment process, and the ability to troubleshoot and repair all associated equipment.

Applicants will have a New Hampshire Class B CDL license with a clean driving record or the ability to obtain one within one year of hire, and the ability to hold or obtain a tanker endorsement. Possession of a New Hampshire Grade I Wastewater Operator license is required, with the ability to obtain a New Hampshire Grade II Wastewater Operator license within one year. Applicants will be required to be on a rotational standby and required to work rotational weekends to complete essential duties at the wastewater treatment plant, collections system, and laboratory. Additionally, applicants must be available for standby duty 24/7 to assist the Operations Division with snowplowing and winter maintenance.

Applications and a more detailed job description are available at the Durham Public Works main office or online at www.ci.durham.nh.us/jobs. Please send resume and cover letter to Durham Public Works, Attn: Shannon Shaw, Assistant to the Public Works Director, 100 Stone Quarry Drive, Durham, NH 03824 or by email to sshaw@ci.durham.nh.us.

The start of the Egg Hunt last weekend. Courtesy, Todd Selig

DISCOVER THE ADVENTURE. BUILD THE FUTURE. BECOME A SCOUT!

At Scout Troop #154, we believe in more than just meetings - we build character, leadership, and lifelong friendships. Whether your child is just starting out or ready for bigger challenges, Scouting offers hands-on experiences that teach responsibility, teamwork, and respect for the world around us.

From learning outdoor skills and earning awards like the Conservation Good Turn, to working together as a team and growing as individuals, every Scout has the opportunity to thrive.

We invite your family to come experience it firsthand:

• Location: Community Church of Durham (look for the Scout Event signs)
• Cub Scouts (Grades K–5): Wednesdays, 6:15–7:15 pm
• Scouts BSA (Ages 11–17): Wednesdays, 7:00–8:30 pm

No experience needed - just bring curiosity and a willingness to try something new.

Come join us and see what your Scout can become!

There is a new community organization evolving out of the Madbury Community Club (founded in the 1950s) that is expanding membership to include residents of Madbury, Lee and Durham. The organization, called 'Community Connections,' is still getting its footing, but there is hope to be able to provide support and connections to residents who might be feeling isolated or lonely, and to help coordinate activities and get togethers among residents of our three communities. 

The first event is an art exhibit called "Community Arts Share," which will be held at the Madbury Public Library, opening on April 11 and running for a month or so, featuring both professional and hobbyist artists from our three communities. Of the 11 artists whose work will be displayed, 4 are from Durham. 

For more information on Community Connections, you can email Mary Downes at mary.downes.7@gmail.com.

The international back to back sheep-to-sweater competition started 30 years ago with the aim to knit a sweater starting from sheep shearing, all in one day. All teams have to participate within a certain time frame. Teams "compete" asynchronously, that is it will be the final time to determine how well a team fares.

All teams have to choose an organization benefiting cancer research or cancer patients to send the money raised through the handmade raffle item. During the event, there will be support team members to offer some educational content to visitors, as the team spins and knits. 

Durham residents Katie Ellis and Francesca Brescianini are a part of team "Granite Web Makers." Come cheer them on as they compete April 26 in Rollinsford!

OYSTER RIVER SCHOOL NEWS

Planned April School Closures

April 27-May 1: All Oyster River schools will be closed for April Break.

Additional Sessions: Kindergarten Registration May 18-21, 2026

ORCSD will be offering additional kindergarten registration sessions for the 2026-2027 school year on May 18-21, 2026. Registrations for all incoming kindergarten students will be accepted in person at the SAU office (36 Coe Dr, Durham, NH 03824) during the sessions listed below. Our full registration packet and requirements details are available online HERE.

Daytime Registration

• Monday, May 18: 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, May 19: 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
• Thursday, May 21: 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Evening Registration

• Wednesday, May 20: 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

School News

ORMS 8th Grade French Students Pen Pal Exchange

Eighth grade French students at Oyster River Middle School (ORMS) are building language skills and cultural understanding through an exciting pen pal exchange with a middle school in Alsace, France. French Teacher Madame Pennelli launched the project in partnership with a former ORMS student who now works in France. Learn more HERE.

2026 Spring Festival Community Day

On February 15, the Oyster River community gathered at ORMS to celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse. The Spring Festival is one of the most important holidays observed in many Asian countries and communities around the world. Celebrated over 15 days, the festivities center on family gatherings, traditional foods, and honoring cultural traditions. Learn more HERE.

Music in Our Schools Month Orchestra Concert

In celebration of Music in Our Schools Month, the Oyster River orchestra program presented a special concert on March 19 in the Morse Recital Hall. The performance showcased the dedication and talent of students across three ensembles: the middle school chamber orchestra, high school chamber orchestra, and high school full orchestra. Learn more HERE.

Coming Events 

Please consider supporting Oyster River students and staff by attending the following exciting events in our schools! Our full calendar of events is available online HERE.

April 17: Moharimet 4^th Grade Spring Musical (The Jungle Book)

6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Auditorium at Oyster River High School.

April 22: Community Dinner

5:00 - 6:30 p.m. Cafeteria and Courtyard at Oyster River High School. $15 per adult or $40 per family (a family includes up to 2 adults and children living within the same household). Please RSVP by April 20.

April 22-23: Mast Way 3-4th Grade Musical (Disney's Moana Jr.)

6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Auditorium at Oyster River High School.

The 2026 Macfarlane Research Greenhouses Open House—the 54th annual— will be held on Saturday, April 18, in Durham. Hosted by the NH Agricultural Experiment Station, this event offers a unique opportunity for guests to tour and learn about the ongoing horticulture and crop research taking place at the UNH Macfarlane Research Greenhouses, meet with NH Agricultural Experiment Station researchers and UNH Extension education specialists, and explore our state-of-the-art research greenhouses.

The day will also include presentations and question and answer sessions by NHAES researchers and Extension specialists, and a guided tour of the teaching plant high tunnels. Additionally, Portsmouth, NH-based food pantry Gather NH will provide lunch. A scavenger hunt for kids will provide an opportunity to learn about how greenhouses work and what makes agricultural research so special.

Schedule

• 9am: Open House begins
• 10am-11am: Jonathan Ebba, Field Specialist - Greenhouse Horticulture Cooperative Extension, Presentation: Raising Healthy Transplants: 10 tips
• 11am-12pm: Anna O'Brien, Assistant Professor in dept. of Molecular, Cellular, and Biomedical Sciences, Presentation Title: A nature-inspired way to make probiotics for plants
• 11am-1pm: Lunch provided by the Gather food pantry. Lunches will be available to all, with donations encouraged
• 2pm-3pm: Xiaochen Yuan, Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology, Presentation: Keeping greenhouse crops healthy: preventing and managing common plant diseases
• 3pm: Open House ends

Please stop in whenever you can during the day (9am - 3 pm). You can find more details online HERE and sign up to receive updates about the presentation topics and experts.