We’re excited to share that New England Aquatics has successfully completed the dredging of our pond. They removed an average of 1 to 1.5 feet of accumulated organic sediment from the pond bottom, improving the overall health and appearance of the pond.
What We’ve Learned About Our Pond
• Some areas of our pond are surprisingly deep. There is a 13ft to 14ft deep diagonal “canyon” that runs roughly from lookout rock towards the kids play area.
• The bottom is mostly large and small rocks with some sections that are clay
• There appears to be remnants of an old stone wall submerged towards the south end of the pond
Potential Bonus: A major source of the brown tannin in the water was from the accumulated and decaying organic matter. They informed us that once the stirred up muck suspended in the water settles out the water should be quite clear in a couple of weeks. We’ll just wait and see if that happens while remaining cautiously optimistic.
This restoration has returned the pond to conditions not seen in at least 40 to 50 years: deeper water, (hopefully)improved clarity, fewer lily pads and pond shields, and a much more inviting space for swimming and recreation. Best of all, it will now more closely resemble the beautiful pond featured on our website— something visitors and members will appreciate.
Dredging has no effect on the quality of the water. It is the same water flowing back into the pond that came from the pond. One possible effect and it is beneficial is it may raise the PH closer to neutral. The water is currently slightly acidic and hopefully removing much of the muck (which is acidic) will raise the PH of the water.
Temporary Beach Conditions:
At the moment, there are two large dewatering bags on the beach, stretching from the smoker’s area to the start of the pavilion. These will remain in place for much of the season to allow water to fully drain and evaporate from the dredged sediment. Once dry, the material will be transported and spread out on the Field of Dreams.
For beachgoers, there’s still a sandy area available in front of the pavilion, extending down toward the kids’ sandbox. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding. A single season of inconvenience will result in decades of a healthier, cleaner pond for all to enjoy.
The pond is still closed to water activities until the dredger is removed next week.
Don G
Pond Committee Chairman