Meeting called to order at 7:30.

The conservancy’s priority objectives were discussed to see if there were any updates or projects that needed to be addressed. In regards to signage, it was agreed that certain signs should not be produced until further information on the reservations boundaries are made available. Once there are clear cut borders and a map showing these borders then accurate signs can be made and placed. Geordie Smith suggested in the mean time to at least have a sign with Plexiglas front to post printed maps and upcoming events. The maps can easily be changed out if things change.

The trail maintenance committee had a trail clean up day and successfully cleared a trail in the wetlands area that had been overgrown and impassable. The committee hopes to organize trail clean ups every couple of months to clear existing trails and create new trails.

An educational hike has been scheduled for Sept. 18th from 9:00am-11:00am. This hike is part of our outreach objective to offer functions to local communities. The hike is going to start at the N.Caldwell access entrance. Phoebe Epstein will be talking about the various types of birds we may encounter on the hike. This hike gives people an opportunity to see the reservation and learn things about the Hilltop.

The mission statement created by Anne Stires was voted on and agreed to be our official mission statement. It will be posted on the web-site.

As part of the public relations to spread the word about the conservancy we will participate in Verona’s Fair in the Square in December. It was agreed that all we need to promote ourselves was to have a table with pictures, flyers with our mission statement and applications so people can join the conservancy. We will need coverage at the table from 12:00-4:00. Volunteers will be needed.

Teena Schwartz gave an update on WHIP(Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program). The program will have to be put off for a year because of a property ownership issue. Hopefully next year we can start, maybe spring.

Dennis German gave a presentation on the Hilltop Conservancy web-site. Dennis went step by step showing new features that have been added. The web-site keeps getting better and better. Thanks Dennis.

Meeting adjourned at 9:00pm.

Minutes prepared by Secretary: Brian Glennon