Abington Environmental Advisory Council Reports 51 Years, Sets Climate Plan as Top 2026 Goal

Environmental Advisory · Meeting of June 18, 2026

Abington's Environmental Advisory Council marked 51 years of operation with an annual report to the Select Board on June 18. Chair Karen McGarry-Rosen credited a seven-member volunteer council with completing four land development reviews, elevating salt-impact concerns in the Beta Wood Creek, winning the Golden Eagle Award from Birdtown for the second straight year, and helping pass a single-use plastic bag ban that took effect in August 2025. The council collected approximately 1,900 pounds of food at recycling and shred events, roughly 500 pounds more than the prior year, along with $4,810 in gift cards and cash.

A grant-funded online composting survey showed "strong resident interest," McGarry-Rosen said. For 2026, the council's stated priorities include completing a township climate action plan, beginning Energy Star Portfolio Manager benchmarking with training scheduled for next month, and advancing an invasive plant management plan developed in partnership with the Shade Tree Commission and Natural Lands.

In the full story:

• McGarry-Rosen outlined eight goals for the coming year
• Who Was There
• Organizations And Documents Referenced
• The complete report — 1,343 words

Source: the Environmental Advisory meeting of June 18, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.