June 12, 2006

Mill Pond shoreline to undergo upgrade

Two shoreline restoration projects will begin at the Mill Pond in New London next week, according to Leilani Peterson, Department of Natural Resources (DNR) shoreline habitat specialist.

One project will take place in Holm Park along approximately 335 feet of shoreline. The second project will occur along approximately 140 feet of shoreline between the swimming beach and the Highway 9 bridge.

"The end result will be cleaner water in the Mill Pond and a more pleasing appearance," Peterson stated. Buffer zones of wildflowers, grasses, shrubs and aquatic plants will be planted along the shoreline.

Currently, the shorelines in these areas are beginning showing signs or erosion, Peterson said. "They're mowed right down to the water's edge so there is nothing to slow down the run-off. Planting a buffer will help reduce the amount of sediment, road salt, fertilizer and chemicals that now enter the water," Peterson said.

Peterson said it could take a couple of years for the new plantings to become established and "really looking good. In the meantime, we hope people will be patient with the temporary appearance as the vegetation takes hold."

The projects are being funded through the DNR Shoreland Habitat grant program in conjunction with the City of New London. Peterson said that anyone with questions, or an interest in the grant program for public and private shorelines, can contact her at 320-354-0009.

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