Working together to restore and protect ALL Barnstable ponds and lakes

As a unified group, we will address the growing cyanobacteria crisis through ADVOCACY, EDUCATION AND SCIENCE.

Have a greater voice in Town efforts to address the problem
Learn from each other by sharing ideas, experiences and information
Provide funding and manpower to expand pond testing
Raise funds to implement solutions

Please join us to ensure that our local ponds and lakes are healthy for future generations. Together, we can make a difference in our community.

Advocacy & Collaboration

The Barnstable Ponds Coalition advocates for responsible regu-lations and policies to protect ponds, working with the Town, environmental organizations, and citizens or neighborhood groups.

Science

Pond health can be aided through water quality monitoring programs and cyanobacteria research. Our goal is to explore and evaluate emerging tech-nologies and bioremediation projects to repair pond health.

Education

We intend to inform, clarify and educate those committed to or affected by the many imminent challenges. We see an immediate need for more actions beyond those already in motion

Cyanobacteria Testing is Underway

Barnstable Ponds Coalition is looking for cyanobacteria testers for the summer. Our goal is to supplement what is currently being done by the Town and other professional organizations.

We have begun weekly testing. No experience is needed. Testing is done one to two meters offshore in no more than thigh-high water. All you need are tall boots or waders, to enjoy being out of doors in the morning, and to have a desire to save our water.

We deploy in teams of two or three. It’s an effective use of time, provides backup and training, and most importantly makes the experience more enjoyable. To see what is involved you can review the short video found at the website of the Association to Protect Cape Cod (APCC). APPC is our partner who will be processing and analyzing the water samples that we collect.

Sampling is done on Thursday mornings beginning at 7 a.m. You’ll be done no later than 9:30. Lightning is the only
weather that cancels collection. Each team will test two to three ponds each session.

If a pond tests positive for cyanobacteria, subsequent weekly testing needs to be done until the pond tests negative. We will be testing through Labor Day. You can test as often or seldom as your schedule allows. Any contribution is welcome and important.

If you are interested but unsure if it’s for you, we welcome you to come watch. To sign up or for more info or questions, email barnstableponds@gmail.com or call Butch Roberts at 401-439-1093.