Activities

Protection of Endangered Species and their Habitat

History of Winchester, By Henry Smith Chapman, notes that Winter Pond is remarkable for certain very rare plants that are found growing upon its shores. Working with the Natural Heritage Endangered Species Program, the Friends have documented the growing conditions and habitat of the rare Lipocarpha-micrantha (Dwarf Bulrush) and developed methods for protecting the Dwarf Bulrush during treatment for nuisance aquatic plants.

Nuisance Aquatic Plant Management

Winter Pond has managed both aquatic invasive plants and nuisance densities of native plants since 2003. The high water level this spring allowed FWP to fund another round of treatment while protecting the endangered plants. Three years of treatment have achieved important reductions in submerged pond weed and water lily density. Aquatic plants that can overwhelm Winter Pond include water lilies, slender naiad, water milfoil, the invasive water chestnut and curly-pondweed.

Invasive Wetland Plant Management - Rapid Response Team

Managing wetland plants that grow along Winter Pond's shoreline is a critical effort for pond ecology and enjoyment. Current invasive wetland plants that pose a risk for Winter Pond habitat include Phragmites, Reed Canary Grass, Yellow Flag Iris, and Flowering Bullrush.

Water Quality Sampling and Monitoring

In 2021 FWP conducted a robust water sampling program to compare with the ESNR Environmental Study. Yearly water testing has been conducted sine then to understand key parameters.

Storm Drains Mapping and Drain Conditions

Developing and maintaining an inventory of the storm water drainage system in the Winter Pond watershed has assisted the Friends in working with the Town Engineers to upgrade the key catch basins that drain to Winter Pond.

Special Projects

Sewer Pump Station Woodside Road - Coming 2026!

The town approved funds to replace a failing 1952 sewer pump station on Woodside Road, which services 70 households in the Winter Pond watershed. The new pump will prevent the release of untreated sewage near the pond, avoiding harmful contamination and nutrient overload of the Winter Pond ecosystem.

Continued Water Quality Sampling - 2026

This ongoing initiative involves regularly collecting and analyzing water samples to track temperature, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient levels. Consistent monitoring allows us to catch pollution spikes early, measure the success of our conservation efforts, and ensure our ponds remain healthy habitats for wildlife and the community.

Replace "Drain to Pond" Stormdrain markers - Coming 2026!

We are launching an initiative to replace faded, damaged, or missing storm drain markers. These essential visual reminders help prevent pollution by educating the public that whatever enters our street grates flows directly—untreated—into local ponds and streams. Stay tuned for volunteer opportunities!

Woodside Road Culvert Cleanout - Coming 2026!

This project focuses on clearing built-up debris, branches, and sediment from the Woodside culvert. By restoring proper water flow beneath the roadway, we can protect local infrastructure, prevent erosion, and ensure heavy rains drain safely away from homes and streets.

Improvements to Woodside Road - Completed Spring 2024

In 2022 the Winchester DPW installed a new sidewalk along a portion of the Big Winter side of Woodside Road and replaced the entire sidewalk along Little Winter side of Woodside Road. In 2024, the town completed the construction of the remaining sidewalk on the Big Winter side as well as parking, additional bench, trash receptacle, and a new kiosk.

Sediment Drain for Little Winter - Completed 2023

Currently, road sediment and stormwater runoff from nearby roadways, such as Woodside Road, Pond Street, and Chesterford Road, flow directly into Winter Pond. Consequently, dirt, sand, fertilizer, and other pollutants go directly into the Pond. This has a detrimental effect on water quality and, subsequently, on the plants and wildlife that depend on the pond water, as well as on recreational activities that require open water. These pollutants are particularly harmful to Little Winter because it is so shallow and, therefore, even more vulnerable to the negative impacts of sedimentation and eutrophication.

Thanks to the efforts of State Representative Michael Day and the state delegation representing Winchester, the FY2022 Massachusetts state budget included $100,000 for projects to improve Winter Pond. Working with the Town of Winchester, FWP identified a sediment drain for Little Winter Pond as a top priority. The state funds covered the design and permitting costs associated with a sediment drain for Little Winter. Funding for the new sediment drain, called a Water Quality Unit, were approved at Fall '22 Town Meeting. Construction is anticipated for Spring 2023.

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