Shared Use Plan

Fresh Pond Reservoir is the terminal reservoir in the water system that provides drinking water to the City of Cambridge and Fresh Pond Reservation serves as an important buffer protecting reservoir health and water quality.  The Reservation is also an important open space for Cambridge residents and visitors. Due to limited space on paths, trails, and open areas, as well as increasing popularity due to restoration efforts, occasional conflicts among users can arise. To address these conflicts, the City sought to engage the public in order to develop a shared vision for future use and a clear implementable plan between the Summer 2010 and Spring 2011. The result of this process was the Shared Use Plan (available in pdf form below) with the intent to accomplish the following objectives (in no particular order):

  • Protect the flora, fauna, and overall ecosystem and water supply,
  • Promote a welcoming and safe place,
  • Provide for a multitude of recreational activities,
  • Promote mutual respect and civility among users,
  • Improve communication among users and with those managing the Reservation,
  • Provide for additional education and opportunities to participate in stewardship,
  • Enhance user safety and enforcement through rules that are easy to understand, posted, and enforceable,
  • Provide for enjoyment by current and future generations.

 

The results from the Shared Use Plan development are available below:

Fresh Pond Shared Use Plan Final Report

Fresh Pond Shared Use Public Comments

Fresh Pond Shared Use Fact Sheet

Fresh Pond Shared Use Recommendations Summary, 02/10/2012