MATTAPOISETT — The Buzzards Bay Coalition appeared before the Board of Selectmen to give an update on the group’s proposed changes to a popular recreation area commonly known as “The Bogs.”

Brendan Annett, vice president of watershed protection for the organization, appeared at the April 9 meeting to give an update on changes that were announced in December. The group hopes to remove some of the water-control measures that were implemented on the 225 acre property when it was a cranberry bog to allow it to go back to its natural wetland state.

Annett pointed out that because wetlands absorb so much water, the restored property will help funnel water into the  town’s aquifer.

The vice president also said that while the restoration cannot negatively impact private property or public infrastructure, the group might look to straighten the harsh curve on Acushnet Road on the east side of the property during work. 

The Buzzards Bay Coalition has received a state grant to improve trails along the wetland, so that “if bridges or boardwalks were necessary we would have the funds to do that,” Annett explained 

The group will also work with an engineering firm that specializes in ecological restoration to do a technical review of the US Department of Agriculture data and design work that serves as the basis of the project.

Annett said the group will hold a public meeting on April 25 at 6 p.m. to update Mattapoisett residents on the project.

The Selectmen were not asked to take any action on the update, but weighed in on some of the property’s recreational potential at the end of the presentation. Town Administrator Michael Gagne said that the face that dogs are allowed on the land is appreciated. He also  brought up the possibility of using the property for skiing or other recreation forms.

Vice Chair of the Board, Tyler Macallister, also brought up the possibility of residents using a pond on the property to fish for bass and pickerel.