Have questions about Nashawannuck Pond? Check here for the answers to our most popular questions.
Where can I find more information about Nashawannuck Pond?
We have a link to the "Diagnostic Feasibility Study for the Management of Nashawannuck Pond" on our Resources page, along with many other great resources.
What kind of fish live in the pond?
There are 20 species of fish who call Nashawannuck Pond home including Large mouth Bass, Pickerel, Crappie, Sunfish, Yellow Perch, White Perch, Sucker, Carp, Eel, Bowfin, Bullhead, Brook, Rainbow, Brown, and Tiger Trout and Pumpkin Seed
Can the water level in the Lower Mill Pond be raised?
Unfortunately, the lower portion and dam are not owned by the city. The water was lowered by the owner many years ago for a hurricane and never raised back up.
Can you swim in Nashawannuck Pond?
There is no designated swimming area. The pond is used for non-motorized boating, nature watching, and fishing. Kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats are available for rent at Valley Paddler, a local business.
Are snowmobiles or ATVs allowed on the pond?
No, there are no motorized vehicles allowed on the pond. Should you see this activity, please report it to the Easthampton Police Department. 413-527-1212.
Is the Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee a 501c3 organization?
No, we are a city committee.
How can i make a donation?
We gratefully accept donations online (you will be directed to the Friends of Nashawannuck Pond. Look for the orange button link), or by check - mail to Friends of Nashawannuck Pond, 50 Payson Ave. Easthampton, MA 01027
How can I volunteer for Winterfest and other events?
The best way to learn when volunteer options are available is to join our mailing list.
Do you have boat rentals?
The pond committee does not provide boat rentals, but kayaks and pedal boats are available seasonally (mid May - mid October) through Valley Paddler.
Where can I put in my boat?
Only non-motorized boats are allowed on the pond. You can launch your boat from the boat ramp on Water Lane which is accessible off Rt. 141. Take Water Street to Water Lane. There is a small paved parking lot and boat launch.
How can I get involved?
We can't do what we do without the tremendous support from our community. If you are interested in joining our committee, please check for vacancies on the city website. Volunteer opportunities exist for WinterFest, Clean Up Day, Ride the Dragon, and other events. Join our mailing list to learn when job boards open. We welcome donations as well.
When is the annual kid's fishing derby?
The Kid's Junior Trout Derby is run by the Easthampton Rod and Gun Club and is held usually in May. To learn more about the event and how to register, contact their Facebook Page.
Why is an american flag flown over the pond?
The American Flag on Nashawannuck Pond started in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11th and remains a tribute to all who have fallen. It is flown from Memorial day through Veteran's Day each year. It continues to be maintained by a group of volunteers whose skills in engineering, boating and love of our community and those who serve are foremost.
Why is a lighted tree on the pond during the winter?
The lighted tree has become an icon for our community over the years. Originally erected by a group of Easthampton "elves", the tree's light reminds us of our sense of community during the dark days of winter.
How do I hold an event on the boardwalk?
The boardwalk is a popular location for community events. Whether you'd like to hold a yoga class, community gathering, or an intimate wedding ceremony you must contact the Easthampton Parks and Recreation Department for permission. There are strict guidelines regarding the use of the boardwalk due to potential liability to the city. Please contact Park & Rec here.
How do I get to the cottage Street cultural district from the pond?
The good news is that you are there! Nashawannuck Pond is an entryway for the Cottage Street Cultural District. There is FREE parking at the Municipal Lot at 50 Payson Avenue. Take a leisurely stroll up the boardwalk and you The good news is that you're already there. Nashawannuck Pond is an entry point for the Cottage Street Cultural District. FREE parking is available at the Municipal Lot at 50 Payson Ave., just across from the pond. You can visit galleries, restaurants and retail stores all within a 5 minute walk! Monthly ArtWalks, annual street festivals like Cultural Chaos and a thriving business district - it's all on Cottage Street in Easthampton, "a little city with a big heart".
What are the big alien-looking pods floating in the pond?
Don't worry, they're not creatures invading from outer space. They are freshwater Bryozoans, also known as ectoprocts. Although they may look scary, they're a family of small filter feeding invertebrates that live as colonies in aquatic habitats. You can learn more about them HERE. (You will be leaving our website)
Why is there algae on the pond?
This question is answered by former pond committee member and current pond consultant, Gary Golas.
Fixes:
1. Time
2. Clear the debris in front of the dam. This is important for several reasons.
3. Make sure the hypolemnetic release is occurring.
4. Consider raising the water level just a bit to increase flow.
- Algae coated macrophytes die freeing the algae to become free floating.
- Treated algae dies and comes to the surface. This is normal and to be expected.
- If there is debris near the dam it may block or delay the algae from going over the dam.
- Algae has more access to nutrients. Nutrients are released from the dying macrophytes and less competition for nutrients with less macrophytes.
- If the pond flow is exceptionally slow, a good rain could help. Since the algae is free floating, it will go over the dam.
Fixes:
1. Time
2. Clear the debris in front of the dam. This is important for several reasons.
3. Make sure the hypolemnetic release is occurring.
4. Consider raising the water level just a bit to increase flow.