"We felt this would be a good way to protect this site," Gail Nixon, deputy health agent for Walpole tells GlobeSt.com. Nixon points out that part of this parcel is designated by the state Environmental Protection Agency as the site of a sole-source aquifer. Most of the land is currently being used--there is a junk yard and metal parts recycling facility there--but those are "not the best uses for the site because of the EPA designation," notes Nixon.

While some of the wetlands on the site are owned by the town, the majority of the parcel is privately-owned by multiple owners, according to Nixon. If the feasibility study determines that a golf course is possible, the town will have to approach the various owners with the plan.

Whether the land could be seized by eminent domain if owners are resistant is unclear, says Nixon, and would only be an issue if the parcel is an intricate part of the plan. The feasibility study will be completed by June 30.