What are the risks to St. John's Pond?
The time is now!
We stand at a critical juncture in the preservation of St. John's Pond, a cherished landmark with deep historical significance for the Cold Spring Harbor community. One of the most photographed and iconic representations of our community, is in danger of devastation.
History
From its early beginnings as St. John’s Lake in the late 17th century when the first mills were first established, to the dam failure and reconstruction in the early 20th century, to the more recent childhood memories of winter ice skating or fishing on the pond, this site has great significance for so many of us.
Current Situation
The weakening of the weir, a vital one hundred-year-old wooden spillway protecting the dam from failure, which would cause the pond to empty into the harbor. This irreversible situation would cause devastation, not just for the picturesque site, but to an entire ecosystem that sustains diverse plant and animal life. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that future generations can create their own treasured experiences in this special place.
What can we do?
Phase 1 (underway): The edge that surrounds the pond is failing. St. John’s Church is currently funding a $250K effort to remediate and rebuild the pond edge.
Phase 2: Address the imminent threat of the weir failing, a spillway that would empty 12ft of water from the pond, fatally damaging the existing dam: incremental $250K in 2025 funding needed
Phase 3+: Multi-year effort for the full-scale dam replacement, comprehensive water remediation, address the roadways run-off impacts, and rehabilitate the surrounding natural habitat and wetlands: $3M+ in funding needed
We have recently seen neighboring ponds succumb to the forces of nature, leaving behind only emptiness and destruction. Friends of St. John's Pond, operating as the "St. John's Pond Watershed Alliance," a 501 c3 Tax exempt organization, are committed to raising the necessary funds for ongoing repairs needed. The 2025 fundraising goal is the beginning, an important step to ensuring long-term preservation.
We invite you to come together with us on September 18th 2025, for our first annual Save-the-Pond fundraiser. United in our love of nature, our beautiful community and our determination to Save the-Pond.
With gratitude and hope,
The St. John's Pond Watershed Alliance