Spring Weed Survey, Invasive Weed Markers & Removal
On June 2, 2026, a weed survey was conducted at Center Pond. Ken Wagner of Water Resource Services led the mission with diver Wayne Pierce and Prudential Committee Chair Dave Friar assisting. They discovered two areas of Eurasian Milfoil and at least two Curly Leaf Pondweed plants. Both are small in areas.
The survey team marked the areas with weighted floats (as shown in the photograph). Please do not move or remove these markers.
The District has a Conservation Commission permit to remove two invasive species wherever found. The divers will address these marked areas first and will continue to monitor other areas of the lake as feasible.
If you or anyone you know is interested in assisting the divers, please let the Prudential Committee know.
As always, when steering a motorized vessel of any kind, be aware of “diver down” markers and provide a wide berth to avoid the possibility of striking the divers.
Annual Meeting - June 7, 2026 @ 10 AM
The District’s Annual Meeting will be held at Town Hall in the Community Room (downstairs). Packages will be mailed to Proprietors using the Town of Becket’s tax list. If you do not receive one by late May, verify your correct address with the Town.
If you are unable to attend the meeting, please complete the 2025/26 proxy form (blue sheet) as soon as possible.
Drawdowns Q&A with Water Resource Services - 1/2025
CPR&PD asked Dr. Ken Wagner of Water Resource Services a series of questions regarding drawdowns. He holds a PhD in Natural Resource Management and offers over 40 years of experience, including lake assessments. Please click on the link below to view his answers to our questions.
Beaver Control - 7/4/2024
A huge thank you goes out to East Lee Animal Control for their fast response and quality service in protecting Center Pond against this spring’s beaver invasion. Thanks also to the proprietors affected for their cooperation and property access. Lastly, many thanks to Mary Canty who led the charge and coordinated with all involved.
In total five beavers were removed. No others were found.
Beavers can cause damming of streams/runoffs, tree and potential property damage, interference with the dam or blockage in the steam beyond, and even septic system issues. Furthermore, beaver feces can carry disease, typically Giardia, and contaminate the water, making it a hazard for people and pets swimming in the lake. Center Pond was tested in spring by the MA DEP and they found no contamination.
The District has retained East Lee Animal Control to perform an annual inspection and identify any beaver activity. They have a great deal of experience and are insured for this work.
East Lee Animal Control also discovered two large otters and a “huge” snapping turtle, which remain in the lake. They may look like beavers but should remain as they do not cause problems for the lake or water-side property owners. Otters are awfully cute too!
Diver Down - Caution
The District utilizes the services of divers to assist in finding and removing invasive weeds. The diver down flag identifies the general area where they are diving. It is critical that boats (especially power boats) avoid a minimum 100-foot area around the flag to prevent injuries and death by propellor and vessel strikes.
High Waters
With heavy rains the water level at Center Pond often becomes unusually high. For example, it reached 8 inches above design elevation (103 feet) in July 2023. Please be mindful when using your power boat and creating wake at these times.
Small watercraft and submerged dock boards have floated away and can get damaged. Boats without covers or automatic bilge pumps will take on rainwater and may be in danger of sinking.