|
Tuesday, 07 February 2006 |
|
Parker Pond is a scenic and moderately developed lake situated primarily in Fayette, a growing community 18 miles northwest of Augusta. The town has experienced a population increase of 217 percent over the past four decades as more people have discovered its natural amenities. Despite the surrounding development, though, the shores of 1,600-acre Parker Pond have remained relatively intact and its water quality (which has been monitored for more than 25 years) is well above the state average. A pair of bald eagles nest by the Pond and there are numerous undeveloped islands managed by the State Bureau of Parks and Lands.
The Pond contains numerous unmarked hazards to boaters mostly in the north end of the lake. There is limited public access to the lake and is most suitable for small fishing boats, kayaks and canoes. The wind primarily comes from the south and the lake remains relatively calm. However, north winds can produce rough water, especially in the open north end of the lake. The shoreline is rocky and drops off rather quickly in most areas. There are no public beaches or recreation areas.
Thanks to the vision and generosity of the former landowners, a 99-acre headland with nearly a mile of undeveloped shoreline on the Pond will remain wild. The owners offered to sell the land to the Kennebec Land Trust (KLT) for roughly half its appraised cost so that the property could remain in its natural state, a scenic mix of rocky outcrops, high-bush blueberries, and mature stands of Eastern hemlock that stretch up to 100 feet high. With support from area residents (through the hard work of the Parker Pond Association) and the Land for Maine's Future Program, the KLT was able to secure the funds needed to complete the headlands purchase. KLT plans to donate a conservation easement on the land to the Parker Pond Association, ensuring that future management of the land protects water quality and prevents subdivision or development.
Fishing is typical of most lakes it's size. It has a healthy population of Bass and is managed by the state for Brook Trout. Some Salmon still remain in the lake from past stocking programs.
The lake is sensitive to environmental changes as it has a VERY low flushing rate (0.7/yr). Nutrient loading in the form of phosphorus from over development or improper shorefront buffers in a very real threat to the pristine condition of this lake.
ANYONE LAUNCHING A BOAT
OF ANY TYPE IS REQUIRED BY THE STATE OF MAINE TO THOROUGHLY INSPECT THE BOAT
FOR ANY SIGNS OF WEEDS. ALL WEED MATTER MUST BE REMOVED AND DISPOSED OF AWAY
FROM THE WATER. PLEASE HELP PROTECT MAINE LAKES FROM INVASIVE WEEDS
|