Press Release on Water Quality Improvement Efforts by MPF

For: Manchaug Pond Foundation
Contact: Marty Jo Henry, Vice President, 508-667-4349

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Manchaug Pond Foundation Continues Water Quality Improvement Efforts

Sutton/Douglas, MA – With a landmark real estate acquisition to preserve the 100-acre Beaton Farm Property now complete, the Manchaug Pond Foundation (MPF) is going full speed ahead with their next major initiative, completing a s.319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Grant recently awarded to the nonprofit group by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

    Having successfully completed a similar grant in 2011, the MPF will continue their efforts to improve the quality of water entering the pond. The MPF will once again work with Comprehensive Environmental Inc. (CEI), a Massachusetts based environmental engineering firm who will design the stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs), and the Town of Sutton who will construct it with their generous in-kind commitment.

    The MPF is particularly excited to be working with Whittier Farms on a number of agricultural related improvements. With over 500 acres of farmland within the Manchaug Pond watershed, the Whittier Family has committed many hours of volunteer labor to help make some unique watershed improvements for educational outreach including modifications to several areas which will include the addition of a dedicated rain garden area at the Milk Store and restoration of vegetated areas around ponds feeding into Manchaug Pond.

    While structural improvements are being made within the watershed, the MPF will simultaneously be working on a major education effort. Coordinating with local educators and stakeholders, the MPF will work to develop a comprehensive resource of materials for teachers, parents and children that may include web resources, study kits, and portable literature displays.

    Anyone interested in joining the Manchaug Pond Foundation in helping with this grant is encouraged to contact Marty Jo Henry at ManchaugPond319@gmail.com

    The Manchaug Pond Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to the preservation and correct use of this 380-acre great pond and its 4,288 acre watershed. For over 45 years, the members of the Manchaug Pond Foundation and its predecessor, Manchaug Pond Association, have served a leadership role as stewards of the lake and advocates and educators for its proper use and preservation.

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