Beech Hill Pond Watershed Survey Project

At A Glance

Contact: 

Lois Hillman

Location: 

Otis, Maine

Primary Issue Area:

  • Land & Water
  • Environmental Health
  • Living Economies

Active since:

2020

Tax Status:

Ad-hoc

Core volunteers:

4

Our Purpose

The purpose of the Beech Hill Pond Watershed Project, Phase 3, is to finalize the Watershed-based Protection Plan (WPP) and 319 Grant Proposal for submission to Maine DEP. An approved plan would facilitate restoration projects that remediate identified NPS pollution sites on Beech Hill Pond (BHP).  BHP has been identified by Maine DEP as a Nonpoint Source Priority watershed, a Threatened Lake in need of protection from threats in the watershed. This project, in its entirety, has been designed to guide efforts that will preserve and protect the lake, surrounding community and living local economy. The Phase 1 watershed survey identified 116 nonpoint source (NPS) pollution sites within the watershed area influencing the health/welfare of the lake, and subsequent community. Completing the survey and WPP are required steps prior to making application for Maine DEP 319 grants. 319 Grants match local contributions and provide the technical assistance to address and remediate identified problem sites. Phase 2 of the project focused on outreach and development of the WPP. Local community groups and individuals evaluated the survey outcomes and provided feedback that will be incorporated into the WPP. The project steering committee continues to move forward activating community groups, building partnerships and activating resources to bolster awareness and protections within the watershed.