Beaver Control - 7/4/2024
A huge thank you goes out to East Lee Animal Control for their fast response and quality service in protecting Center Pond against this spring’s beaver invasion. Thanks also to the proprietors affected for their cooperation and property access. Lastly, many thanks to Mary Canty who led the charge and coordinated with all involved.
In total five beavers were removed. No others were found.
Beavers can cause damming of streams/runoffs, tree and potential property damage, interference with the dam or blockage in the steam beyond, and even septic system issues. Furthermore, beaver feces can carry disease, typically Giardia, and contaminate the water, making it a hazard for people and pets swimming in the lake. Center Pond was tested in spring by the MA DEP and they found no contamination.
The District has retained East Lee Animal Control to perform an annual inspection and identify any beaver activity. They have a great deal of experience and are insured for this work.
East Lee Animal Control also discovered two large otters and a “huge” snapping turtle, which remain in the lake. They may look like beavers but should remain as they do not cause problems for the lake or water-side property owners. Otters are awfully cute too!
Diver Down - Caution
The District utilizes the services of divers to assist in finding and removing invasive weeds. The diver down flag identifies the general area where they are diving. It is critical that boats (especially power boats) avoid a minimum 100-foot area around the flag to prevent injuries and death by propellor and vessel strikes.
Website Created - 7/1/23
Our new website is officially live! We extend a special “thank you” to Taylor Hardy for making it possible. We are committed to keeping the website current and welcome your photos, questions and suggestions.
Appreciating Paul Merrill - 7/1/23
Paul was the third generation in his family to grow up enjoying Center Pond. As a result, he possessed a wealth of information about its history and community. He also understood how critical the dam was to the future of the lake and how we all needed to come together to rebuild it. When the District was formed, Paul began his tenure as a valued Member of the Prudential Committee for the Center Pond Restoration & Protection District. His primary role involved monitoring the lake for invasive species and working closely with those contracted to abate them.
Most notably Paul and Tank, his trusted sidekick, acted as ambassadors for Center Pond. They cruised the lake in Paul’s pontoon boat, picking up passengers from lakeside properties along the way. Without this generosity of spirit, Center Pond neighbors might not have had the opportunity to meet one another.
The District wishes Paul a sincere “thank you” for all that he has done for Center Pond and for those who reside along its banks.
High Waters
With all the recent rains the water level at Center Pond is unusually high for this time of year. It reached 8 inches above design elevation (103 feet) in July 2023. Please be mindful when using your power boat and creating wake. Small watercraft and submerged dock boards can float away and get damaged. Boats without covers or automatic bilge pumps will take on rainwater and may be in danger of sinking. Thank you.