Clarity persists, few signs of trouble

Testing of Fresh Pond this week showed the highest levels of clarity yet without the observations of cyanobacteria reported last week. These tests now go to DEC labs for year over year analysis.

We still see thick but harmless filamentous green algae to the left of the public access road entrance. Beyond this unappealing growth may lie further problems that, with your support, should be a target for extra cleanup work next year.

Elsewhere, they crystal clear conditions are remarkable and Fresh Pond seems far fresher than the nearby saltwater bay. Large and small fish are plentiful, and seem almost tame and eager to greet visitors. Ospreys, herons, swifts and other fishing and insect eating birds are frequently being sighted.

These gains are short-term and our efforts must continue, but as Labor Day approaches we are thankful and in awe of the pond’s appealing beauty and resilience.