May 8, 2010
Third Annual Fresh Pond Day
Due to rain, The Third Annual Fresh Pond Day was held inside the Walter J. Sullivan Water Purification Facility at 250 Fresh Pond Parkway. Several City agencies and organizations had informational displays in the lobby (as shown in three photos). Informational tables located in the corridor of the Water Treatment Facility include the Organic Gardening table where one could obtain planting tips and free seedlings, as well as tables staffed by Ranger Jean Rogers with information on Fresh Pond's inhabitants and history. Free transportation to the Reservation was provided from various locations around the City.
Left Photo - The lobby floor contains maps of the pipes that move water to the people of Cambridge. The gentleman looking down (in foreground) is scrutinizing the maps of this water distribution system. The tables (in background) include informational displays by The Cambridge Water Department, Cambridge Animal Commission and Grow Native Cambridge.
Middle Photo - The Friends of Fresh Pond Reservation Informational Display table (left) is where visitors received information about Fresh Pond including programs where one can learn plant ID, et al that are offered free to the public. This was also the meeting place for volunteers who helped remove the invasive weed, Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Many youth groups had informational tables, like the colorful Gately Youth Group apple co-op table (right) where one could get an apple and/or a cup of apple cider while watching the process of making apple cider with a press.
Right Photo - The day featured activities for participants of all ages with games, tours, and demonstrations. The Informational Display (lower left) shows the history of the Cambridge Public Drinking Water System. One could take a planting kits (which contain mini marigold seeds, a planter, potting soil, fertilizer and instructions) from the table on the right. The Cambridge Police Department's Informational Display (background, bottom of stairs) is where tips for safe bike riding was given to kids. The Cambridge Election Commission (opposite stairs) table gave visitors the opportunity to register to vote. More informational displays were located on the second floor (including WIC) in the area with views of the lobby.
Description and Photo by Carol Collura