Water Testing at Clear Pond

  • By the Town, County, or State

    Periodic testing may be conducted by each of these governmental entities. Additionally, with assistance from the public, the town assesses the potential presence of toxic CYANOBACTERIA to determine if closure of the pond is warranted.

  • Required testing

    Condo Associations with a beach are required to conduct water testing during certain prescribed months of the year.

  • Private testing by the CPWA

    As funds allow, the CPWA will have the water tested for the presence of phosphates and/or nitrates. Additionally, the town has provided several of our members training and access to equipment to test dissolved oxygen levels and water clarity.

“So what do I need to Know about water testing?”

Plant nutrients such as PHOSPHATES and NITRATES stimulate the growth of aquatic plants, algae, and bacteria. Summer heat, ever-increasing as a result of climate change, fuels this growth. At the end of their life-cycle the plants, algae, and bacteria decompose using the dissolved oxygen in the water.

Dissolved oxygen helps capture and contain PHOSPHATES in the decomposed plants, algae, and bacteria as well as in the naturally occurring sand and rock. If/When the dissolved oxygen level is too low, the PHOSPHATES are released and in turn the additional phosphate may fuel the growth of ever-present bacteria in the water. Of particular concern is the growth of CYANOBACTERIA.

CYANOBACTERIA is one of the building blocks of life on our planet. In the right conditions, cyanobacteria can become toxic and bloom; these blooms will be bright green, they look slimy, and can be picked up (but please don’t!!!). Toxic Cyanobacteria blooms are a health danger to children and dogs in particular and humans in general. Exposure can cause liver and nerve damage, and at the very least may cause diarrhea, eye irritation, or rashes.

For more information about Pond Closures and FAQ’s about Cyanobacteria click the following link: Beach & Pond Water Quality Testing | Plymouth, MA (plymouth-ma.gov)

If you see what looks like a cyanobacteria bloom, stay out of the water and contact the town’s Public Heath Department at 508-322-3339, or click the following link to make an on-line report: https://www.plymouth-ma.gov/938/Report-A-Concern . If confirmed, the pond will be closed to swimming and other in-water activities while the blooms are occurring and for 2 weeks afterward.

To receive text or email alerts about pond closures click the following link to be added to the town’s text or email databases: https://www.plymouth-ma.gov/list.aspx

The town also posts a notice about pond closure at the entrance to the Clear Pond Conservation Area on Surrey Drive. Additionally, the CPWA will make every effort to notify our friends by email of pond closures.

Sign-up below to receive pond closure and re-opening notifications.