Restoring and preserving
Craigville waterways
Recent News
RLPPA purchased a benthic barrier product called a “Lake Blanket,” which is laid on the bottom of the lake and held in place by rebar which is placed in slots to hold the blanket at the bottom. If the first use of a benthic barrier is effective, we will plan for additional approvals from the Conservation Commission to cover more areas of the ponds in 2025 where macrophytes have been removed.
The first section of the benthic barrier, was placed into very frigid waters in February. A series of connected 10 foot wide barriers with a total length of 240 feet were placed over a portion of the area that was cleared in July 2023 to prevent regrowth in part of the area where we cut and removed macrophytes. The barrier will cover an area basically from the point where the new dock was installed, headed north but not reaching the sandy beach, constituting about 1% coverage of Lake Elizabeth.
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Herring Count
April 1 - June 15
We need to volunteers to count herring running up the stream into Lake Elizabeth at the location of the dam. Counts take place four times a day within a big range of time.
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Macrophyte Harvesting
July 11 - 13
Volunteers cut macrophytes from the ponds and move them to shore where they will be allowed to dry for a few days and then taken to the Town of Barnstable Transfer Station for disposal.
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Stella Maris Kayak Procession
August 9
A solemn procession of kayaks and canoes, sporting lights on their bows, in our beloved Lake Elizabeth, with Italian music wafting over the waters.
The evening begins with Italian music, snacks, and drinks.
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Phragmite Cutting
August 21 - 24Phragmites are an aggress invasive plant species that is clogging marshes, lakes, and waterways. Red Lily Pond Project Association is committed to keeping the Craigville herring run open and clear by removing them annually.
Learn about recent good news for the future of the Craigville ponds, dam, and fish ladder. The webinar will provide more details on the specific plans for each project, the project team working with the Town of Barnstable Department of Public Works, the anticipated timing for construction, and funding.
Phragmites Cutting from the Herring Run Completed in August
Thank you to our team of volunteers that cut back phragmites from the entire length of the herring run from the Lake Elizabeth dam site to the entry into the Centerville River in August!