The Marion Conservation Commission’s plans to clean up the overgrown brush at Sprague’s Cove just got a $12,000 boost from a few friends.

The Friends of Silvershell Beach donated the funds to be used in removing the brush and willow trees from the property, which have disrupted the surrounding wildlife and could possibly have caused damage to an existing dike.

Last month, the commission went forward with its maintenance plans for the cove located behind Silvershell Beach. This raised some questions with the Selectmen and Town Administrator Paul Dawson.

Under state procurement laws, the Selectmen must first approve the use of any private funds by town boards and committees.

This was not done in August. In response, the commission was forced to postpone payment to the contractors that had helped with the maintenance.

On Tuesday night, the Selectmen approved the donation from the Friends of Silvershell Beach as part of a three-year plan to clean up the area.

Dawson also cleared the commission of any wrongdoing.

“We can all be very comfortable,” Dawson said. “All is on the straight and narrow.”