Ball Pond, New Fairfield - 2005

2005 Aquatic Plant Survey Map of Ball Pond

Transect Data | Water Data

  Ball Pond is an 82.5-acre body of water that is fed by bottom springs and surface runoff from the surrounding property. The majority of the shoreline is developed with residential structures, many with retaining walls at the lake’s edge. The lake has a maximum depth of 51 feet and a mean depth of 24 feet. A state-owned boat launch is located at the southern end of the lake, though boats with motors are prohibited. The launch is the only available public shore access. A fire engine pipe is also located there.

Our 2005 survey revealed the highest occurrence of coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum) and southern naiad (Najas guadalupensis) occurring at depths of 12 feet or less. Coontail was mainly observed in the southern and northern ends of the lake while southern naiad was evenly distributed around much of the shoreline. Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) was largely found near the northern and southern edges of the lake. After seven years of grass carp introductions, some residents have noticed a decrease in Eurasian watermilfoil and an increase in coontail. The invasive minor naiad (Najas minor) also was found, but only near the southern shoreline in depths less than 6 feet.  White water lily (Nymphaea odorata) and yellow water lily (Nuphar variegata) were found in small to medium sized patches along the edges of the southern and middle sections of the lake. Variable pondweed (Potamogeton gramineus) was found in a cover on the eastern side of the lake, while Oakes' pondweed (Potamogeton oakesianus) was found leading up to the cove.