Beach parking stickers
Parking stickers for the town beach are available on the Park and Recreation Commission website. Visit harvardma.myrec.com/info/activities>>Beach Programs, Beach Parking Sticker. Stickers purchased online may be picked up at the pond when sticker checkers are on duty.
Residents can also buy parking stickers at the pond after June 25, or in person with a check in the Recreation Director’s office in the bottom level of Fivesparks at 7 Fairbank St. Office hours are Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Register for summer lacrosse
Registration is open for the girls’ summer lacrosse program, Thursday nights July 10 through Aug. 14. Pre-K through age 6 sessions include skills, games, and scrimmages led by Bromfield players and alumni. Older players will participate in scrimmages until sunset. More details are at harvardlax.org sign up at go.teamsnap.com/forms/484157.
Scholarship applications due Aug. 1
Currently enrolled college students are eligible to apply for financial assistance from trust funds left to the town by Sarah Watson. Applications are available at harvard-ma.gov>>News & Announcements, Sarah Watson Scholarship and should be submitted by Aug. 1 to David L. Taylor, trustee of the Watson Scholarship, ℅ Adams & Blinn, 1900 West Park Drive, Suite 280, Westborough, MA 01581. All questions should be directed to Taylor’s office at 978-368-1200.
Planning Board survey
In preparation for an upcoming review of the town’s master plan, the Planning Board seeks input from residents on the prioritization and continuation of goals identified in the 2016 Master Plan Report. An online survey, which should take about 10 minutes, is available on the town website at harvard-ma.gov/planning-board.
Devens farmers market
The Devens farmers market returns this summer with a selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables. The market will be held every other Tuesday, June 24 through Oct. 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the corner of Elm and Jackson roads, across from the Fire Station. For information visit devenscommunity.com/meetings-and-events and scroll down.
Girl Scouts offer extended-year membership
The Girl Scouts invite girls and adult leaders into troops now being formed for the 2025-2026 Girl Scout year. The year begins Oct. 1, but girls joining by June 30 with an extended year membership have the opportunity to earn badges for free over the summer. Adults registering for the extended year are able to train and have access to support systems over the summer. Visit gscwm.org/en/get-involved.html for more information.
Mud season on town trails
With mud season continuing and the ground vulnerable to potholes, rutting, and erosion, the Conservation Commission asks residents to exercise care on town trails. Minimize trail damage by following these guidelines:
- Horseback riders and bicyclists should avoid trails until they firm up.
- Vehicles must keep to gravel parking areas and off muddy edges.
- Trail walkers and runners should avoid widening wet trail areas by keeping to existing trails or rock-hopping.
- The running track through the woods at Harvard Park is built with drainage and a compacted surface; it is a good option at this time of year.
Transfer Station stickers
Transfer station stickers are now on sale via mail or online. Stickers will not be prorated and both stickers must be purchased at the same time. Purchased stickers will be mailed out by June 15. Prices remain unchanged from last year at $130.00 for two stickers. For forms and information go to harvard-ma.gov/transfer-station.
Guide to ICE and local law enforcement
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell has issued guidance for immigrants, families, and communities on responding to activities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The “Know Your Rights” guide provides community members with information about their rights and the legal framework for ICE stops, arrests, and inquiries, and the role of local law enforcement agencies. To access the guide, go to mass.gov/doc/ago-ice-guidance-05292025/download.
Loaves & Fishes
The Loaves & Fishes food pantry, 234 Barnum Road, Devens, serves food to people in need who reside in Ayer, Devens, Dunstable, Groton, Harvard, Littleton, and Shirley. Pantry hours are Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon; first Tuesday, 4 to 7 p.m.; third Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon; last Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon. Visit loavesfishespantry.org for more information.
Devens noise report
- Throughout June, small arms fire
- June 12-13, helicopters, parachuting
- June 14-15, machine guns.
