Wainscott Pond algae counts fall from spring peak but remain higher than last year; trustees consider mitigation options

Trustees were briefed on recent blue‑green algae monitoring. Staff reported that recent counts at Wainscott Pond have fallen from readings near 1,000 to about the 500 range over the last several weeks; by comparison, a sample from the same time last year was around the low 200s.

Trustees noted reports of algae in a Water Mill pond and suggested exploring technologies such as micro‑bubblers. Trustees recommended consulting with Dr. Gobler (referenced in the meeting) to determine feasibility, noting issues such as electricity access and pond volume vary by site.

Trustees said Georgica Pond is much larger and may pose different technical and logistical challenges than smaller ponds like Wainscott. Staff will continue monitoring and share further data with trustees and experts for evaluation.

Next steps: follow-up evaluation with Dr. Gobler and continued sampling; no mitigation contract was authorized at the meeting.