For immediate release Contact: Catherine Williams
May 26, 2010 (617) 626-1809
Beaches and trails are flooded due to heavy spring rains
To protect public safety and a historic landmark, the Department of Conservation and
Recreation (DCR) will reduce visitor capacity to Walden Pond State Reservation this season as
heavy spring rains have caused water levels in the pond to rise several feet above normal,
covering beach areas and trails.
DCR had divers remove hazardous materials and structures such as benches, fences and
wooden platforms that as a result of the high water level were submerged in the beach areas.
Flooded trails, including sections of the popular Pond Path that circles the pond, will be closed
to protect natural resources and public safety, and signage will alert park visitors to the
restrictions and alternative paths. To control the number of people visiting the Reservation,
parking will be limited to 169 spaces, about half the usual number, and, to protect public
safety, swimming will be prohibited outside lifeguarded areas.
"In the interest of protecting public safety and safeguarding the historic and natural features of
the Reservation, DCR believes restricting public access is the best approach," said DCR
Commissioner Richard K. Sullivan Jr. "Walden Pond is an extremely popular destination, both
for local residents and indeed for visitors from around the world, and DCR is committed to
keeping it open as much as possible."
Park staff members will direct walkers and hikers to marked trails in the Reservation other
than the Pond Path, and will suggest other nearby outdoor recreation areas, including
Cochituate State Park in Wayland, Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle, Hopkinton State
Park in Hopkinton, and Lowell Heritage State Park in Lowell. To enforce the restrictions on
access and swimming, DCR plans to provide additional support from Rangers and
Environmental Police Officers to the Reservation.
Walden Pond is a glacial, kettle-hole pond, with no surface water flowing in or out. Water
levels in the pond are determined by precipitation and surrounding groundwater levels. The
pond is the deepest lake in the Commonwealth, measuring nearly 90 feet at its deepest
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