🌿 ABOUT THE HARWICH PONDS COALITION
Who We Are
The Harwich Ponds Coalition is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting, preserving, and improving the health of freshwater ponds in Harwich. We work to inspire responsible stewardship, support science-based pond management, and empower the community to take action that ensures clean and vibrant ponds for future generations.
Founded in 2024, the Coalition brings together residents, scientists, local organizations, and volunteers who share a commitment to healthy ecosystems and a thriving Harwich environment.
Our Mission
Our mission is to restore and protect the freshwater ponds of Harwich, Massachusetts through:
- Education & Awareness — helping residents understand pond ecology, pollution sources, and how to be part of the solution
- Science & Data — supporting water-quality monitoring, research, and evidence-based strategies for pond management
- Community Action — advocating for best practices, mobilizing volunteers, and collaborating with partners who share our goals
We believe that healthy ponds are essential to Harwich’s environmental well-being, quality of life, and natural heritage.
Why Harwich Ponds Matter
Harwich is home to more than 60 freshwater ponds, each contributing to the town’s ecosystem, recreation, wildlife habitat, drinking water, and local character. However, many ponds are under increasing pressure from:
- Excess nutrients from septic systems and fertilizer use
- Toxins from pesticide use and other sources
- Stormwater runoff
- Invasive species displacing native flora and fauna
- Climate change
- Other human activity
Without community involvement and informed action, pond health can decline rapidly — but together, we can protect them.
What We Do
The Harwich Ponds Coalition focuses on practical, local impact:
🧬 Water Quality & Science
We support research and environmental monitoring to understand pond conditions and guide effective solutions.
📣 Education & Outreach
We share knowledge with residents, schools, civic organizations, and policymakers to promote responsible pond stewardship.
🤝 Collaboration & Advocacy
We work with the Town of Harwich, environmental groups, volunteers, and partner organizations to advance pond-friendly practices and policies.
Board of Directors
Our work is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to environmental health and community service.
Board of Directors (10 Members)
- Susan Cyr — President
- Ann Frechette — Vice President
- Erik Skramstad — Treasurer
- Ben Warshaw — Clerk / Secretary
- Donna Connolly — Director
- John Ketchum — Director
- Scott Norum — Director
- Patrick Otton — Director
- Diana Preston — Director
- Rich Walker — Director
How You Can Help
There are several ways to support our mission and make a difference for Harwich ponds:
✅ Become a Member
Join the Coalition and stand with others who care about clean and healthy ponds.
Membership/Pond Pledge page
✅ Take the Pond Pledge
Read about the Pond Pledge on our membership page.
💚 Make a Donation
Your gift helps fund science, education, and local action.
Online donation is currently under construction.
Please check back soon.
The Harwich Ponds Coalition is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
✉️ Stay Informed
Get updates on pond health, volunteer opportunities, and events.
Contact us here.
Contact Us
We welcome questions, ideas, and partnerships.
Email: info@harwichwaters.org