Edgartown Great Pond Cut Update:

Edgartown Great Pond is currently quite high at 4.6 feet above LMSL.  Although none of us like to see the elevation of EGP this high, the combination of the completion of dredging and a high pond bode well for a successful cut and flush of the pond.  Due to the forecasted high winds out of the south and swells predicted for the Island Friday and Saturday, Edgartown Shellfish Constable Rob Morrison, is looking at early next week as the next possible window for the opening. Being conscious of the negative impacts that might occur from elevation achieving ≥ 5.0 feet LMSL, to mitigate flooding Rob has removed one board from the sluiceway to help lower the elevation and accommodate for the forecasted precipitation. Water is currently flowing through Crackatuxet Pond and into the Herring Creek culvert on the east side.

We appreciate Rob’s proactive approach and attentiveness as an effective spring cut and flush increases the overall health of the pond for the entire season and decreases the likelihood of cyanobacteria blooms. We need at least 9-11 days of tidal exchange to flush out the nitrogen and phosphorus in the pond, to increase water clarity, and to raise salinity. Cutting the pond and having the storm close it before a flush, would be much worse for the health of the ecosystem than waiting a few more days.