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Phosphorus Levels

(from 2003 Reclamation Committee Report)

In 2002, after a year of monitoring, it was found that the phosphorous levels were one thousand (1,000) times higher in Martins Pond than in any other pond previously reported in Massachusetts.

Also in 2002 it was discovered that phosphorous levels peaked at the inlet and outlet to Martins Pond and also at Central Street and Rte. 28.

In 2003, it was found that it only peaked at the inlet and the outlet of Martins Pond. It also peaks after heavy rains.

A lot of theories, but more studies are needed to actually decipher what those results mean. Does septic and fertilizer run-off, combined with the thick sediment add to phosphorous levels?

One fact that has been established is that the phosphorous levels do not effect or are not effected by algae levels. It was earlier thought that there was a coincidence between phosphorous levels and algae blooms.

It was also discovered that back in 1994, the phosphorous levels were normal, so why are they 1,000 times higher than any other recorded pond or lake? Failing septic systems, over use of fertilizer, thick, dense sediment? There isn't a definite answer yet.