FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10/14/2025
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
City of Framingham Conducting Study at Waushakum Pond
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FRAMINGHAM - The Community Preservation Committee (CPC)-funded study at Waushakum Pond is currently underway, facilitated by the City’s Conservation Department.
This important project aims to better understand and address phosphorus levels in the pond that contribute to poor water quality and algae growth.
Water samples collected on September 15 revealed a notable presence of phosphorus, with concentrations higher, and in one case, much higher, in the bottom waters.
Based on these findings, the next phase of the study will focus on collecting sediment core samples to identify and quantify the source of phosphorus being released from the sediments.
The plan calls for the collection and testing of at least five sediment cores to account for the variability in near-bottom phosphorus concentrations observed in recent data gathered by Water & Wetlands.
The ideal timeframe for sediment coring is between now and the formation of ice on the pond. The City is currently in the final stages of procurement and expects to schedule this work later this month.
“We’re excited to see this important project moving forward,” said Conservation Administrator Rebecca Nau. “Understanding the phosphorus sources in Waushakum Pond is a critical step toward improving water quality and protecting this valuable natural resource.”
The alum study is one of several initiatives funded by the Framingham Community Preservation Committee to enhance and protect the City’s environmental and recreational resources.
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