our HISTORY and MISSION
Variable leaf milfoil and several other invasive aquatic plants were taking over Hood Pond
Swimming was nightmarish, fishing areas were becoming choked, boating was restricted, and native plants were being displaced. The pond was becoming filled with thick plant growth while aggressive grasses infiltrated the shore. The diversity of wildlife was decreasing.
Local residents from Ipswich and Topsfield combined efforts to find a solution
Working with many local and state agencies, approval was obtained to treat the variable milfoil and fanwort with an ecologically safe and targeted herbicide. Water chestnut was slowly being eliminated from being hand pulled. Phragmites needed yet a different approach.
After the completion of a five-year treatment plan that was begun in 2019, we are seeing a huge and gratifying improvement
Herbicide treatment has been very successful. Two surveys – one by Solitude and one by DCR showed that as far as they could see, Hood Pond is free of the invasive aquatic plants! However, vigilant monitoring, testing and plant-specific elimination techniques will continue to be necessary for the foreseeable future, as even small pieces of milfoil can begin another infestation.
Great care is being taken to ensure that Hood Pond remains healthy
Take part in maintaining and protecting Hood Pond and its surrounding watershed. It's a home and place of respite for so many of us. Watch and listen to the many members of our local wildlife who are returning and thriving. Osprey, bald eagles, and bullfrogs, among others, are once again our neighbors. Support our mission and become a member of Friends of Hood Pond.
Please contribute to hood pond's efforts to maintain a healthy environment, free from invasive aquatic plants
Your help is greatly appreciated!
TOPSFIELD BEACH ASSOCIATION brings the community together
The Topsfield Beach Association supports the Friends of Hood Pond's efforts to keep our water clean, free from invasive plants, and ecologically healthy
Hood Pond is an expansive 100 acre pond located off Route 97 in Topsfield.
Staffed by certified lifeguards, Hood Pond offers members a place to escape and enjoy the best of summer!
Annual Hood Pond's summer memberships are available to Topsfield town residents and non-residents.