Stormwater Pollution

According to the Massachusetts Lake and Pond Guide, storm water is among the greatest threats to Massachusetts Water bodies.  Storm water can carry a variety of contaminants to a water body and significantly degrade the aquatic environment.  Storm water can be conveyed to a water body by storm water structures that discharge directly to the receiving water body or through surface water runoff. 

There are 51 stormwater structures on the lake. Sedimentation and contamination from stormwater occur any time there is significant rainfall. To combat the sedimentation occurring from storm water, plunge pools (which are basically containment areas) have been installed in four locations; two at the Hemlock Beach, the boat cove at Island Road and the cul-de-sac at the end of Island Road.  Two additional stormwater improvements are planned at Little Hickory.