Introducing Friends Of Nashawannuck Pond 501c3

"FRIENDS OF NASHAWANNUCK POND, INC."
FORMED FOR ENHANCED PRESERVATION AND FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee was established in 1985 with a mission to promote the cleanup and preservation of Nashawannuck Pond at the intersection of Williston, Union, and Cottage Streets.

​Under the leadership of Amy Marsters, a current committee member, the Steering Committee is proud to announce "The Friends of Nashawannuck Pond, Inc.," a Massachusetts non-profit corporation operating under the authority of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 180.  "Our mission is to financially support the City of Easthampton’s Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee for the maintenance and preservation of Nashawannuck Pond for generations to come.”

Realizing rising costs and potential grant opportunities for pond improvements, the structure of being a committee within the City was limiting the pond’s needs. Amy Marsters, in collaboration with Mayor Lachapelle, their attorney, and the city solicitor, has spearheaded the creation of a 501(c)(3) organization. This change empowers the "Friends of Nashawannuck Pond, Inc." to fundraise more effectively, access a wider array of grant opportunities, and reduce the burden on the city and reliance on Community Preservation Act dollars.

Going forward, the Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee will continue with its steadfast dedication to the environment. Nashawannuck Pond is vigilantly monitored for invasive plants, and, when necessary, herbicide treatments are employed to maintain its ecological balance. The committee is actively engaged in implementing preventative measures for cyanobacteria using barley straw and conducts testing whenever there is an indication of cyanobacteria, ensuring the safety and health of the pond. Currently, the committee is evaluating the retention walls installed in 2001 for shoreline stabilization, recognizing the importance of preserving the pond's natural beauty.

The Committee sells merchandise and organizes the annual WinterFest to generate funds for the pond's upkeep. The basic annual maintenance and operating costs are approximately $10,000. WinterFest sponsorships will continue to be a crucial component in achieving their financial goals. The Friends of Nashawannuck Pond will lead robust efforts for grants and donations as a separate nonprofit organization.

The organization is governed by a Board of Directors, with Amy Marsters as the President, Beth Tiffany as the Treasurer, and Hillary Ballantine serving as the Clerk / Secretary. Directors: Paul Davis, Elaine Wood, Veronica Frantz-Eggleston. The Board will also appoint and oversee committees and committee chairs responsible for their respective areas of focus.

To join us, or for more about The Friends of Nashawannuck Pond, Inc. please contact Amy Marsters at [email protected].
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About The Friends of Nashawannuck Pond, Inc.

The Friends of Nashawannuck Pond, Inc. is a Massachusetts non-profit corporation dedicated to supporting the City of Easthampton Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee in the maintenance and preservation of Nashawannuck Pond. The organization's tax-exempt purposes are overseen by a dedicated Board of Directors and carried out by a team of dedicated volunteers and practitioners. Their mission is to ensure the continued vitality of Nashawannuck Pond for future generations.

REMEMBER US FOR YOUR TAX DEDUCTABLE CONTRIBUTIONS !