Friday Updates - March 20, 2026

Friday, March 20, 2026

Maple sugaring season! Courtesy Genspark.AI

NH Maple Weekend 2026 is scheduled for this weekend, March 21–22, 2026. Over 90 sugar houses across the state will open their doors for tours, tastings, and maple demonstrations. Learn more HERE.

Spring has sprung! (Though plants haven’t quite yet.) The first day of spring, or the spring equinox, is today, March 20th in the Northern Hemisphere. 

Business is slow in downtown Durham, creating a challenging operating environment for our downtown businesses. To ensure a vibrant downtown, it's important that residents support local businesses with their patronage. The next time you’re thinking about dining out, shopping for everyday items, or scheduling personal care services, think downtown Durham! ️

We forgot to wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day in last week's Friday Updates. Hope it was a nice one! ☘️

Recount of the ORCSD election for At Large school board is occurring today at Madbury Town Hall.

The Lamprey River Advisory Committee Spring Newsletter is out. You can access it HERE.

SWEET TRADITION RETURNS - Moharimet’s Annual Pancake Breakfast - March 28

Next weekend, Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM, join Moharimet Elementary School for its 22nd annual buffet-style Pancake Breakfast featuring syrup boiled at the school’s own Sugar Shack! Moharimet students have been busy this year tapping trees, collecting sap, and learning about this time-honored New England tradition.

In addition to pancakes, the breakfast menu includes sausage, fruit, coffee, and juice, with gluten-free and vegan pancakes available. Enjoy live music and entertainment from Oyster River High School and Middle School students, plus exhibits from local organizations. Guests can also explore displays of maple sugaring projects created by each classroom and purchase t-shirts and syrup.

Funds raised support the maple sugaring educational program for the Moharimet community. A suggested donation of $6 per person or $20 per family is appreciated (cash or check accepted).

FIREARMS, FREE SPEECH, AND PUBLIC SAFETY AT TOWN COUNCIL AND BOARD MEETINGS

At recent Council meetings, a number of individuals in the audience have worn holstered firearms, including a report that approximately eleven people were armed at the last meeting on March 2. New Hampshire law places significant limits on what municipalities may do with respect to firearms possession and carry, and the Town must operate within that legal framework. At the same time, weapons may not be brandished, pointed, or displayed in a threatening manner, and any conduct that creates a genuine safety concern must be addressed promptly and appropriately.

Public comment is one of the core features of local government. It is not always easy to hear, and at times it may be sharply critical, but that is part of the price of an open democratic system. Hearing from people at the extremes helps ensure that everyone in between can exercise their freedom of speech under the Constitution.

ITEMS ON MONDAY'S TOWN COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA (3/23/26)

• Swearing in of the new Council members
• Election of Chair and Chair Pro Tem
• Approval of Resolution #2026-04 establishing Town Council meeting dates for the coming year
• Approval of road closure request for a block party on Jenkins Court in April
• Public Hearing on Ordinance #2026-02 increasing the amount of the credit for disabled veterans
• Public Hearing on Ordinance #2026-03 to change the zoning for 10 Cowell Drive
• Discussion on whether to reinstate an Economic Development Committee
• Appointment of Council Representatives to various town boards, commissions and committees

An orientation for new Town Council members will take place at 6 PM. immediately prior to the scheduled Council meeting, which begins at 7 PM.

Sunrise over Oyster River Middle School. Courtesy, Neil Slepian

UNH STUDENT SURVEY OF GUNS ON CAMPUS - HB 1793, The "Campus Carry" Bill

The UNH Student Senate recently surveyed 2,361 students on HB 1793, the bill that would prevent public colleges and universities from enforcing gun‑free policies on their campuses. The findings were clear: 81.8% of respondents “strongly oppose” the bill and another 3.5% are “somewhat opposed,” while only 10.8% “strongly support” it. A large majority also said the bill would have affected their decision to attend UNH, with 85.9% indicating they would have been less likely to enroll if such a law had been in place, compared with just 3.9% who said they would have been more likely to attend and 7.8% reporting it would not have mattered.

Earlier this year, the Durham Town Council unanimously adopted Resolution #2026‑02 formally opposing HB 1793, echoing concerns about the impact of more firearms on a dense residential campus and in the surrounding community. A link to that resolution can be seen HERE. There was also an article in Foster’s Daily Democrat with more information concerning the recent UNH Student Senate survey which can be seen HERE. 

Outgoing Town Councilor and current Durham State Representative Wayne Burton penned an Op Ed in the Union Leader about the topic this week. You can see this Op Ed HERE.

POTENTIAL TAX RELIEF FOR THOSE STRUGGLING TO PAY PROPERTY TAXES

If you are in a situation where you are finding it difficult to pay property taxes, there are programs that have been adopted by the Town of Durham and the State of New Hampshire that may be of assistance. These programs are in the form of property tax exemptions, credits, and low to moderate income tax relief. We encourage you to reach out to the Durham Assessor’s Office at (603) 868-8064 or visit the Town of Durham’s Assessing website HERE.

A quick guide to exemptions and credits offered by the Town can be found HERE. Applications are due by April 15, 2026, for the 2026 tax year.

Additionally, the State of New Hampshire provides property tax relief for low to moderate income homeowners. This relief only applies to the state education portion of the tax rate. Applications are due after May 1, 2026, but no later than June 30, 2026, for relief of 2025’s taxes. Please note this is a form of relief offered by the State not the Town; applications can be filed online at www.revenue.nh.gov/gtc or by contacting the Department of Revenue Administration at (603) 230-5000.

Lastly, the Town has a statutory obligation to place a lien on your property if you have not paid your property taxes within 30 days of the due date. After two years and one day, the municipality can then tax deed the property to the municipality for unpaid taxes. If you are behind on your taxes and are at risk of tax deed, you can also apply for legal assistance through the 603 Legal Aid organization at www.603legalaid.org or by contacting them at (603) 224-3333. 

If you have any questions about the different forms of tax relief available, please contact the Durham Assessor’s Office at (603) 868-8064.

If you have any questions regarding the lien or tax deed process, please contact the Durham Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s Office at (603) 868-5577. 

On or around June 29, 2026, Durham’s curbside solid waste and recycling collection will transition to fully automated collection!

This exciting transition to an industry standard program will be preceded by the distribution of standardized containers (Toters™) for all residents participating in curbside collection. Each residence will be assigned Town owned containers for solid waste and recycling – A 96-gallon container for single-stream recycling and a 64-gallon container for solid waste. Detailed instructions will be provided at the time of cart distribution and on the Town’s website around cart use and placement.

Recycling will no longer need to be separated into dual-stream streams, as recycling will all be collected in one container as a single stream collection, every other week.

Alternate downsized container sizes may be requested prior to APRIL 8, 2026**, by visiting our online Alternate Cart Size and Program Opt-out form HERE or by contacting Durham Public Works at (603) 868-5578. After April 8, residences will be assigned the default 96-gallon and 64-gallon container sizes noted above, and alternative container size requests will be reviewed and accommodated as limited inventory allows. Residents who choose to opt-out of the program will need to consider alternative collection or choose to visit the Transfer Station.

For a relative size comparison of the different cart sizes, please see photo above of Assistant Director Sam Hewitt who stands 6’2” tall next to 48-, 64-and 96-gallon containers, or stop into the Durham Public Works offices located at 100 Stone Quarry Drive to view and test each size in person. Actual cart dimensions are also provided below to assist in resident cart size decision making.

(** deadline extended from March 31^st )

For full program details, please visit Durham’s Automated Curbside Solid Waste and Recycling Collection Handbook HERE or contact Durham Public Works with specific questions or needs at (603) 868-5578. Stay Tuned for more information as the roll out date approaches.

Construction activities along Phase 4 are set to begin during the week of March 30th. As part of the project, traffic on Madbury Road from Edgewood Road to Emerson Road will be restricted to southbound only, with northbound traffic detoured via Edgewood Road and Emerson Road as shown in the detour map above.

Construction activities along Phase 3 are set to resume during the week of April 6th. As part of the project, traffic on Madbury Road from Garrison Avenue to Edgewood Road will be restricted to northbound only, with southbound traffic detoured via Edgewood Road and Strafford Avenue.

The individual Phase 4A and Phase 4B Roadway, Drainage, and Streetscape Projects were awarded to G.W. Brooks and Sons, Inc. of Freedom, NH. The two projects are an extension of Phase 3 and include the installation of traffic calming measures, including attractive median islands with crosswalks, along with streetscape improvements, landscaping, and hardscape improvements from Edgewood Road to Hampshire Avenue. The two projects also include the addition of a left-turn lane from Madbury Road southbound onto Emerson Road, heading toward the Oyster River Middle School. Installation of lighting in key locations along the corridor will also occur, in addition to a fully contained stormwater collection system that will partially connect to water quality media box filters for roadway stormwater treatment filtration installed during the Phase 1 project in 2024.

Temporary sidewalks along the west side of the corridor from Edgewood Road to Hampshire Avenue will be constructed in the interim, as the Phase 5 multi-use path is not scheduled to replace them until the State’s 10 Year Transportation Improvement Plan is approved. The plan, which includes Durham’s federally and state funded $1.8 million multi-use path, is anticipated to be approved during the summer of 2026 with multi-use path construction funding currently programmed in 2033. The Town intends on working closely with NHDOT to accelerate this schedule for early construction based on completion of all permitting and final design and to coincide with the States U.S Route 4 and Madbury Road roundabout intersection improvement project. 

On January 9, 2026, the contract and associated documents for the Mill Pond Dam Removal project were signed by Administrator Selig and SumCo Eco Contracting, LLC following approval by Town Council in October 2025. Discussions related to final project planning, schedule, and logistics are continuing between The Town of Durham, Sumco, VHB, and the regulatory agencies throughout this spring. The following updates and schedule are provided by Durham Public Works to help keep Durham residents informed throughout the project:

• A neighborhood meeting to take place on Mill Pond Road will be scheduled in early May. The exact time, date, and meeting location will be announced soon.
• Contractor mobilization and road closure of Mill Pond Road between Church Hill Road and Smith Park Lane is currently scheduled for mid-May. The closed section of Mill Pond Road will be utilized by the contractor for construction lay down area and will be completely restored at the completion of the project. The sidewalk on Mill Pond Road will remain open and protected for pedestrian use.
• A detour plan for the Mill Pond Road partial closure will be completed and shared with the public in the coming weeks.
• Drawdown of Mill Pond will not be initiated until the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department declares the completion of the spring fish run in the Oyster River. This date is uncertain but could be any time through the end of June. Some work is still expected to be performed prior to drawing down the impoundment, including site preparation, material/equipment delivery, and staging.

More details about the overall project including the NHDES Wetlands Permit and Contract Documents can be found HERE.

Any questions can be directed to Town Engineer April Talon, P.E. at 603-868-5578 or via email at atalon@ci.durham.nh.us

The Planning Board is holding a public hearing on Wednesday, March 25 on a proposal to increase the height in a section of the Central Business-1 District to five stories and 60 feet. This change would affect a limited number of properties – those shown on the map here inside the area marked in red and bounded by Main Street, Jenkins Court, and Pettee Brook Lane. The height limit for the rest of the Central Business-1 District would remain at 4 stories and 50 feet. 

Lots shown in brown are owned by the Town of Durham. Property shown in blue is owned by UNH. The proposal would also allow structured parking on the first floor in the entire Central Business-1 District provided there are commercial uses fronting the street to a depth of at least 50 feet. Presently, the entire first floor in the district must be commercial.

You can see more information HERE.

DURHAM POLICE TO SHIFT CALEA ACCREDITATION LEVEL

As reported last week, Durham Police has long participated in the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, or CALEA, program, which is intended to strengthen accountability, professionalism, and citizen service through nationally recognized standards. The department has worked hard to maintain Advanced accreditation for many years, yet each new cycle has become more demanding and time-consuming, even though staffing has not increased.

As part of the FY 2026 budget process, the department requested a part-time Accreditation Manager position to help manage the growing administrative workload associated with Advanced accreditation. That position was approved, but with continued budget pressures and a delayed start date, Chief Rene Kelley, Deputy Chief Jack Dalton, Captain John Lavoie, and Administrator Selig revisited whether there was a more sustainable long-term approach that would be more cost effective and retain the core elements of CALEA that serve Durham so well. 

After reviewing the options, the decision was made to transition Durham Police from Advanced accreditation to CALEA’s Basic, or LE1, level. This change will reduce administrative burden and documentation requirements while preserving the department’s core policies and high-liability practices, including response to resistance, pursuits, custody, investigations, and evidence handling. The department will continue to participate in accreditation-related best practices. 

Though not the ideal scenario Advanced accreditation provides, with the reality of limited resources and an ongoing effort by staff to be effective and efficient, it is believed this is a sound, cost-effective path forward. To learn more about CALEA, click HERE.

The FY 2025 annual fiscal audit is under way this week with representatives from the external audit firm, Plodzik & Sanderson, at the Town Hall. Staff in the Business Office, Town Clerk/Tax Collectors Office, and departments are busy responding to queries from the external auditors. The Town typically receives the final audit report in the fall, including a public prevention of findings from the auditors as well as posting the final report on the Town’s web site. Past audit reports can be found HERE.

Public Safety and Alcohol Enforcement - The Town’s Leadership Team spent considerable time discussing alcohol‑related activity downtown. Members reviewed a pattern of liquor license violations there at one business and a related upcoming State Liquor Commission hearing on possible liquor license revocation. The group also talked about a noticeable rise in alcohol‑related arrests since January.

UNH Partnership and Student Alcohol Trends - The team looked more broadly at alcohol issues involving UNH students, including underage possession. Police indicated that while arrests are up, those who complete alcohol programs and related sanctions rarely re-offend, which suggests those interventions make a positive difference all around. The group agreed that renewed, joint efforts with UNH are needed to share the load, improve education, and reduce pressure on downtown neighborhoods. Chief Rene Kelley will be in touch with officials at UNH to discuss further. 

Wagon Hill Farm and Off‑Leash Dogs - The Leadership Team continued its ongoing conversation about off‑leash dogs at Wagon Hill Farm. Staff reported that officers have conducted more than 100 patrols with relatively few tickets issued but many positive interactions, but that does not fully resolve concerns about peace of mind for other users who do not appreciate dogs after 10 AM bounding up to and jumping on them or the ecological impacts of dogs off leash on the property, particularly along the sensitive shoreline. The Land Stewardship Subcommittee is helping to evaluate options that range from ending off‑leash access altogether to more tailored approaches like designated areas, or some type of permit/tag system (suggested during this meeting), with an eye toward what is realistic to enforce and fair to both Durham residents and the many visitors who enjoy the site.

Police Accreditation - Chief Rene Kelley walked the group through the Police Department’s decision to move from advanced CALEA accreditation down to Level 1 in light of budget constraints/limitations. The advanced level requires extensive documentation and staffing. The Chief emphasized that the department will continue to follow strong, well‑established internal standards even as it scales back the paperwork, consistent with Level 1 CALEA certification, and that the Town will explain this change clearly to residents so people understand that the shift is largely administrative rather than a step away from professional best practices in policing.

Operations, Projects, and Cybersecurity - Staff provided a number of brief but important operational updates. Public Works reported on the Madbury Road Complete Streets work and next steps in the Mill Pond Dam removal process, including plans for historical documentation and interpretive signage so the story of that site is not lost as the river is restored. The group also heard about internal efforts to improve upon efficiency/security in day‑to‑day operations, from rolling out the Staples Business Advantage purchasing program and cleaning up telecommunications and utility billing to putting in place a new set of cybersecurity and information‑technology policies. 

Community Programs and Regional Coordination - Parks & Recreation is preparing for spring and summer programs, including staffing for camps and the traditional Egg Hunt on April 4. The Durham Public Library is planning a joint e‑waste collection event with UNH’s Sustainability Institute later this semester, giving residents a convenient way to recycle old electronics. The team also reviewed plans for the upcoming school district ballot recount in Madbury (see above), including secure transfer of Durham’s ballots and a police presence for oversight for the recount, as well as a brief update on ongoing development activity and zoning discussions intended to respond to housing needs.

Julian Smith is Durham’s most colorful storyteller. In his 88+ years he has had Forrest Gump-like fortune in being near some famous (and infamous) characters. 

Julian was born in Covington, Louisiana in 1937, at the start of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s second term. Covington, the seat of St. Tammany Parish, was a small town until a causeway was built across Lake Pontchartrain in 1956, connecting it to New Orleans. Julian’s black Uncle John - his grandfather’s half brother and the son of a freed slave – told Julian about Homer Plessy (who John knew personally). In 1892, Plessy, who was 7/8 Caucasian but still considered black under state law, bought a train ticket in New Orleans bound for Covington. He never got there. Click HERE to read the whole story and more!

There was a crooked old man

Who met a crooked old tree.

“Ah”, swore he, “long may you stand,

For you remind me of me.”

Julian Smith

SCAM TARGETING CONSERVATION COMMISSION MEMBER

This past week a member of the Conservation Commission let us know that he had received a scam email asking him for money. The email stated:

Dear Mr. ____,

I hope this message finds you well.

The Town of Durham Administrator’s Office is pleased to inform you that staff has completed the review of your application requesting a transition from Alternate Member to Regular Member of the Durham Conservation Commission.

Following the administrative review process, staff has recommended approval of your request, recognizing your prior service and valuable contributions as an Alternate Member of the Commission. Your continued willingness to serve the Town of Durham and support the work of the Conservation Commission is sincerely appreciated.

As part of the final administrative steps required to complete the appointment process, the Application Approval Fee associated with this membership transition must be settled. For your convenience, the corresponding invoice has been attached to this email.

We kindly request that you review the attached invoice and proceed with settlement at your earliest convenience so that the Administrator’s Office may complete the formal appointment documentation and finalize the process without delay.

To complete the process, please follow the steps outlined below:

1. Reply to this email if you require instructions regarding the invoice settlement process.
2. Arrange settlement of the attached invoice according to the provided instructions.
3. Upon completion of payment, please return the payment confirmation together with a signed copy of the invoice via email for verification and official record keeping.

Your prompt attention to this matter will assist our office in finalizing the administrative documentation and confirming your appointment efficiently. We greatly appreciate your cooperation and your continued commitment to serving the Town of Durham.

Should you have any questions or require additional assistance regarding the invoice settlement or documentation requirements, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued service to the community.

Sincerely,

Thomas J. Bonfield

Director, Administrator’s Office

Town of Durham

8 Newmarket Road

Durham, NH 03824

Obviously, the Town does not request money from those volunteering on a Board, Commission or Committee! (Seriously!!??) And whoever Thomas J. Bonfield is, he does not work in the Durham Administrator's Office.

We are seeing more and more scams related to things that are posted on the Durham website. So please be aware, and never send money to anyone without contacting the Durham Town Offices first!

Sunrise looking over the Oyster River High School. Courtesy, Matthew Pappas

There are some easy ways to cut down on waste in a packed lunch. Small changes DO add up over time and have a real impact in our community and beyond.

Reusable bottles: 

Reusable bottles keep plastic out of the waste stream AND keep out-of-pocket costs down. For example, buying one larger container of juice, milk, or other beverage, and decanting it into a reusable bottle is more economical and cuts down on single-use plastic. In addition, juice boxes and similar cartons are NOT recyclable.

Reusable sandwich bags and wrap: 

Filmy plastics are the worst of the worst from a recycling and plastic waste standpoint. Fortunately, there are many alternatives. Check out local businesses like The Replenish Refillery in Dover, The Refill Station in Portsmouth and We Fill Good in Kittery for some great non-plastic options.

You can also make your own reusable, easy to clean kitchen wrap with spare fabric and some beeswax. See HERE.

Reusable storage:

Check out the local businesses mentioned above to replace single-use plastic options for 

food and/or liquid food containers and reusable dip/condiment containers. Having good quality, leak-proof containers make it almost as easy to pack these items.  You also save a ton of money! (Have you ever added up how much you're paying for ¼ cup of ranch dressing?).

Shop online? Check out these options for quality reasonable storage:

Lunch Bots

U-Konserve

Utensils: 

Any cheap stainless steel utensils will work-check with Goodwill or the Swap Shop. 

Buy in bulk and repack:

Individually-wrapped packets of chips, etc. are appealing for their convenience, but come with a high carbon price and no recyclable components. Plus, they are a much higher price per serving. Buy large containers and repack into reusable, smaller containers for lunches and snacks.

Napkins:

Choose brown napkins over white. Brown napkins can be composted! 

Sources:

Wholefully.com

GreenBeverly.org

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.

Mud season is here, and while it’s a great time to get outside, our trails need a little extra care this time of year.

Why it matters:

Spring snowmelt leaves trails soft, wet, and vulnerable. Walking around mud might keep your feet dry, but it actually widens trails and leads to long-term damage.

How to help protect the trails:

Stay in the center of the trail—even if it’s muddy.

Step on rocks or durable surfaces when you can.

Go through mud and water, not around it.

Avoid trail edges, which are more prone to erosion.

On Saturday April 18th, from 8:30 to 11:30 AM there is an opportunity to get this small but mighty nature paradise right downtown by the Mill Pond ready for the season and its numerous visitors, including wildlife!

Also, there will be an information table managed by Durham's Land Stewardship Coordinator with the support of a group of UNH graduate students working on their Sustainability Capstone Project about invasives management after the removal of the Mill Pond dam.

There will be lots of handouts and information to share, feel free to stop by just to chat with someone. For more information, contact Veronique Ludington at vludington@ci.durham.nh.us.

UPCOMING AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION WORKSHOPS

Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop – March 28, 1-3pm at Tuckaway Farm, 36 Captain Smith Emerson Road, Lee. Join Durham Agricultural Commission member Bryan Cassidy to learn how to prune fruit trees young and old. Bryan is building a posse of pruners to care for fruit trees. Dress for the weather and email bryancassidy77@gmail.com to register. A $20 fee is requested but not required to participate.

Seed Starting Workshop – April 4, 10am, UNH Macfarlane Research Greenhouse, 13 Botanical Lane, Durham. Join Durham Agricultural Commission members Ellen Karelitz and Dave Langley to jump start your garden. This free workshop is for experienced and new gardeners interested in growing their own food. We’ll discuss garden planning, starting seeds, a sowing calendar for our region – what to sow, when to sow it – extending the growing season, using vertical space to reduce ground area needed, determining the space you need (it’s much less than you might think), and time saving techniques. Please register for the workshop by emailing Dave Langley at davelangleydesign@comcast.net

Durham Police Deputy Chief Jack Dalton attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation Annual New England Regional Command College from March 8–11, 2026, in Chatham.

The Regional Command College is a critically important program that supports the FBI’s law enforcement and national security mission while advancing training and fostering strong partnerships with local agencies across the country. The program is designed as a forward-thinking course for leadership and management levels within law enforcement.

The course curriculum included:

• Cold Case Investigations
• Investigative Genetic Genealogy
• Complex Financial Crimes
• Fraud Trends and Analysis
• Preventing Targeted Violence
• Crisis Management
• Community Outreach Services

Deputy Chief Dalton is looking forward to incorporating some of the techniques he learned into the Department’s operations.

DURHAM ROADWAYS POSTED FOR RESTRICTED WEIGHT LIMITS

Durham Public Works would like to remind residents and contractors that unless specifically permitted by the written authorization of the Public Works Director, it is unlawful for any person, partnership or corporation to haul, transport or cause to be transported by vehicle with a gross weight over six (6) tons any material over the following Class V roads from 12:01am on March 15 through 11:59 pm on April 30:

1) Back River Road – From US 4 to Madbury Town Line

2) Bagdad Road – From Canney Road to NH 108

3) Bay Road – From Newmarket Town Line extending to Durham Point Road

4) Bennett Road – From Packers Falls Road extending to NH 108

5) Canney Road – From Madbury Town Line extending to NH 108

6) Dame Road – From Newmarket Town Line extending to Bay Road

7) Durham Point Road – From Bay Road extending to 100 Durham Point Road

8) Emerson Road – From Bagdad Road to Madbury Road

9) Longmarsh Road – From NH 108 extending to Durham Point Road

10) Mill Road – From Packers Falls Road extending to Woodridge Road

11) Packers Falls Road – From Newmarket Town Line to Lee Town Line

12) Watson Road – From Back River Road to terminus

13) Wednesday Hill Road – From Packers Falls Road extending to Lee Town Line

14) Winecellar Road – From Longmarsh Road extending to terminus

15) Wiswall Road – From Packers Falls Road extending to Lee Town Line

WINTER MAINTENANCE STORMWATER OUTREACH – Notification to property owners of private roads and/or 10+ parking spaces

Durham is considered a Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) community, and because of this, must adhere to the U.S. EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NH Small MS4 General Permit. To help meet this permit’s salt reduction requirements, on February 27, 2026, Durham Public Works sent outreach materials regarding winter storm maintenance best management practices to regulated property owners in Durham. The aim of this outreach was to inform private property owners of an NHDES requirement to hire snow removal professionals that are trained and certified under the New Hampshire Green SnowPro certification program. This requirement under the NH Small MS4 General Permit only applies to owners of privately maintained facilities that fall under the following criteria:

• The property generates stormwater that drains to the MS4
• The property has a private road and/or has a parking lot with ten or more parking spaces.

A list of currently certified New Hampshire Green SnowPro contractors can be found at HERE. While facilities that conduct their own snow removal are not required to be Green SnowPro certified, it is recommended. For more information about the Green SnowPro program, please email Salt@des.nh.gov.

To learn more about salt reduction and the Green SnowPro program, you can also visit the NHDES webpages linked HERE and HERE.

The Durham Public Works Snow fighting team faced numerous challenges throughout this winter response season, including staffing shortages, water main breaks, equipment maintenance requirements and multiple significant wind events. Despite these obstacles, the entire Public Works team delivered exceptional performance, maintaining safe conditions for the public under demanding circumstances.

Winter storm-related emergency operations began on November 24, 2025, and continued through March 7, 2026. Storm activity has remained ongoing, with the potential for additional emergency responses still present as of this report today.

Over the course of the season, the Snow fighting team responded to 24 winter weather events requiring the deployment of snow removal equipment and de-icing materials. A total of 77.5” inches of snow fell, including several back-to-back, multi-day storms that required prolonged response efforts exceeding 35 hours per event, followed closely behind by post storm cleanups.

As a result of these sustained operations, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 winter maintenance budget has been significantly impacted. To date, over 74.3% of the total snow and ice removal budget has been expended, including more than 96% of the allocated overtime funds. The remaining budget will be required to fund future snow response operations through the balance of 2026

DURHAM WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT COMPLIANCE EVALUATION INSPECTION (CEI) - No deficiencies observed

On February 27, 2026, a representative of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES), Water Division, Wastewater Engineering Bureau conducted a NPDES CEI at the Durham Wastewater Treatment Facility. Objectives of the inspections included determining compliance with NPDES permit conditions, verifying the accuracy of permit-required information and the adequacy of permittee sampling and monitoring.

Wastewater Division Superintendent Matt Collins, and Laboratory Technician Meredith Hoyt were present for the inspection and provided information to the NHDES Environmental Inspector. The NHDES has issued their findings that No deficiencies were observed during the NPDES CEI. Thus, no response is required by Durham to this inspection report. Congratulation to the Wastewater Division Team – Job Well Done!

Durham Public Works, in conjunction with its contractor APH Plumbing and Heating, completed an emergency replacement of the wall-hung condensing boiler at the Town Hall facility this week. The existing unit, originally installed during the new Town Hall construction project in 2013, is the primary heating source for the facility. Several mechanical and gas piping components have been problematic in recent years, and a crack was discovered in the heat-exchanging unit last week. Given the unit’s age and projected cost to replace the heat exchanger, a full system replacement was ultimately coordinated. Because funds for the replacement were not included in the FY 2026 budget, $17,100 in contingency funds were utilized. 

"Astronomy Night," which was supposed to happen this winter, has been rescheduled to Friday, April 24. Let's hope this time the weather is favorable for observing the stars!

Sign up HERE and bring a small flashlight and binoculars if possible.

Meet up in at the upper parking lot of Wagon Hill Farm at 7:30PM.

THE ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION PRESENTS “HOMELESSNESS AS A CRISIS OF DEMOCRACY”

The Active Retirement Association (ARA) announces a FREE presentation, “Homelessness as a Crisis of Democracy,” on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 1:30 - 3:00 PM, at the Community Church of Durham, 17 Main Street, Durham, NH, and also via Zoom. The featured speaker is Paul Schofield, PhD, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Bates College in Lewiston, ME, who has written essays and op-eds about homelessness for numerous national publications and is completing a book on the subject that is due to be published late next year.

Schofield states that “Homelessness is a wholesale exclusion from society, community, and civic life. It is exclusion that is inconsistent with our democratic values. This realization should shape our political response to the homelessness crisis as well as our thinking about how those who are housed should treat those who have nowhere to live.”

This FREE event is open to the public; however, pre-registration for non-ARA members is required at seacoastara@gmail.com. Please be sure to indicate whether you plan to attend in person or via Zoom.

The ARA is an all-volunteer organization for people ages 50 and over, whether retired or not. Originally begun by and affiliated with UNH, it currently has over 370 members from New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, and beyond. The ARA is committed to encouraging life-long learning for its members by offering lectures, workshops, discussion groups, cultural tours, walks/hikes, member-interest Programs on Demand (PODs), and much more. For more information visit www.aranh.org, or to inquire about membership write to arainfo1982@gmail.com. We invite you to join us and expand your world!

The Active Retirement Association, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is not affiliated with any political, religious, ethnic, or special interest group.

OYSTER RIVER SCHOOL NEWS

You're Invited! April 22 Community Dinner

The Oyster River Sustainability Committee invites you to a community dinner and Earth Day celebration at the Oyster River High School, 5:00-6:30 p.m., on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, to enjoy a delicious, locally and sustainably sourced cookout dinner (beef or veggie burger, hot dog, and grilled chicken). Each meal includes side salad options (garden, potato, macaroni, and coleslaw), a beverage, and dessert. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options will be available. Cost: $15 per adult or $40 per family. Please RSVP HERE by April 20.

ORCSD Hosts AI-Focused Teacher Workshop Day

On March 13, ORCSD teachers and educators gathered in the Oyster River Middle School’s Morse Recital Hall to kick off a teacher workshop day. After a keynote, attendees were invited to attend workshops led by Oyster River students and staff. 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.

March 25: ORHS National History Day Exposition (Please note: This event was rescheduled from March 19 due to the conflict with Music in Our Schools Concert)

5:00-6:30 p.m. Cafeteria at Oyster River High School.

March 26: ORMS Humanities Night

5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Oyster River Middle School.

March 28: Moharimet Pancake Breakfast

8:00- 11:00 a.m. at Moharimet School. Suggested Donation: $6 per person or $20 per family. Cash or check to Moharimet School will be accepted. Maple syrup and t-shirts will be available for sale.

April 9: ORHS Coffee House

6:00 - 8:00 p.m., Multipurpose Room at Oyster River High School. Coffee House celebrates the quarterly launch of the award-winning student publication Mouth of the River. The $5 admission can be purchased at the door and is one of MOR's primary fundraising sources. Food and drink are included with admission.

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.

Get excited for the upcoming Cat Trax bike share spring season, in partnership with the Town of Durham! The bikes will be out and available for use by all Durham community members on March 26th. A few program updates and reminders:

Renting bikes is currently FREE! 

Rentals can be made through the Movatic app HERE and scanning the QR code on the bikes. A couple more reminders when renting:

• Cat Trax bikes can be ridden anywhere within Durham
• Wear a helmet and abide by all safety/road laws
• Do not ride a bike with flat tires/broken brakes/other issue (please report issues using the app!)
• At the end of your rental, return your bike to a bike rack, LOCK the bike, and end the rental in the app

Check out our community bike rides! These events will be occurring biweekly and are friendly to all levels of rider. If you are interested in joining us at any point, feel free to join our GroupMe HERE! Our first ride will be on April 4th at 9:30am, starting out front of Nesmith Hall. 

Additionally, we will be hosting a free bike repair clinic on March 27th from 2-5pm at the Serc Lawn (across from Kingsbury Hall). Bring your bike to get some free basic repairs and learn more about sustainable transportation efforts in Durham! This is a great opportunity to meet other people in the community who love biking and sustainability – and nothing beats a free bike repair. These events are open to ALL Durham community members, not just students. 

Keep an eye out for more events from Cat Trax this semester and updates on the Sustainability Institute Instagram HERE. Feel free to reach out via email to victoria.whitcomb@unh.edu or jess.calarese@unh.edu with any questions you have regarding the program, community events, or anything else.