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Freshwater Ponds Committee <br />July 22,2025 <br /> <br />and could serve as a catalyst for further environmental planning and restoration. <br />Committee members are encouraged to explore this program and stay informed, <br />as it represents a strong opportunity for collaboration and evidence-based action. <br /> Mashpee Wakeby RFP Process <br />The Town of Mashpee is moving forward with the RFP process for an alum <br />sulfate treatment project at Mashpee-Wakeby Pond, with town-funded permitting <br />and engineering design work already in progress. As of August 11, the plan is to <br />go out to bid and secure additional funding for the RFP, which includes consulting <br />for two more years of testing in both basins, particularly important as 75% of the <br />phosphorus load is entering from the Wakeby side. This marks a critical update <br />for the region's largest pond, which is projected for treatment around 2027. <br /> Ashumet Pond will be the first treated with alum sulfate, followed potentially by <br />Santuit Pond in the spring for herbicide application. Johns Pond, which has a <br />largely undeveloped watershed, is not currently showing cyanobacteria blooms <br />but is part of ongoing surface water monitoring. Past discussions around Santuit <br />Pond highlighted public concerns regarding alum use, leading to the installation <br />of solar circulators aimed at oxygenating bottom waters—though the pond lacks <br />a thermocline, limiting effectiveness. <br /> Santuit Pond Invasive Species Treatments <br />A permit and Order of Conditions were approved for treating Santuit Pond to <br />target two invasive species and one nuisance species—which is widespread <br />across approximately 170 acres. Recommended treatment methods include <br />aquatic herbicide application, diver-assisted suction, and selective spot <br />treatments. While eradication efforts have been 100% successful in some areas, <br />reintroduction remains a risk due to boats launching into the pond. The permit is <br />valid for five years; however, no action has been taken to date. Treatment is <br />anticipated in spring 2026. Cost estimates vary depending on the scope of work: <br />under $10,000 for a limited application, and approximately $107,000 for a full- <br />scale treatment. The primary species of concern are Variable Leaf Milfoil and <br />Fanwort, with the nuisance species Elodea considered the next priority after <br />these invasives. <br /> Funding will need to be budgeted and secured, potentially through town <br />appropriation or a grant previously awarded to the Tribe, which is still being <br />confirmed for availability. Johns Pond is also scheduled for treatment, with an <br />estimated cost of $38,000. <br /> During discussion, it was confirmed that no significant environmental impacts <br />are expected beyond the targeted species. Clarification was made that the grant <br />funding in question can be used broadly for invasive species control. The town <br />meeting petition deadline was noted as July 14, but there may still be time to act. <br />Ashumet Pond was also identified as having Elodea, commonly referred to as <br />'waterweeds.' While this plant is native, it can become a nuisance if internal <br />nutrient levels are above normal. A formal assessment is still required. When <br /> <br />