The tadpoles, dragonfly nymphs, fish, and other aquatic life in the pond have been increasingly difficult to find. Large amounts of fertilizer used at nearby homes and in the park have caused an overgrowth of algae and duckweed, which rendered the pond hypoxic (no oxygen) this summer. Healthy ponds have an oxygen level of 10-12 mg/L. this past summer, it was 1mg/L, a dead zone, endangering every animal in the pond, including turtles, invertebrates, eels, and fish. The pond also needs dredging. Dredging the pond will remove the nutrients from fertilizer accumulating in the sediment. Pond succession, a natural process where a pond slowly fills in with sediment and land, is also occurring. Dredging will restore the pond's volume and depth, which will help eliminate unhealthy algae blooms and begin to heal the pond's ecosystem.

In addition to the chemical changes, the pond at Cherry Lawn Park has fishing lines, bobbers, and hooks hanging from the trees and in the water, threatening wildlife. Recently, a Nature Center class found a freshwater eel wrapped in a fishing line with a hook deep in its throat. We were able to cut him loose, but sadly, we could not free him from the hook he had swallowed. I don't know how eels feel pain, but as he swam away, I felt sad for his uncertain future. Water quality is vital to maintaining environmental balance in our community. As our lawns lay dormant for the winter, I hope we can plan some small or significant changes to help protect Darien's incredible water habitats. 

On February 6th, we have a unique opportunity to learn and act. In partnership with the Darien Library, Bill Lucey, the Soundkeeper of the Long Island Sound, will present the work he is currently doing to remove ghost pots from the Sound. This is a chance to gain valuable insights and inspiration. Bill's involvement in every aspect of sound restoration, including reducing nutrient levels within the watershed that feeds the Long Island Sound, makes this event a must-attend for anyone concerned about our water quality. Let's come together and make a difference.

Ways to reduce your impact on water

Cherry Lawn Pond in 2017 and 2024