Click here to view map of Great Pond access options

The Conservation Commission will hold a public forum on Nov. 19 on public access to Great Pond.

The commission has just begun to explore the subject, and held a workshop with the Town Council last month.

The network of paths in the area of Great Pond demonstrate that the public frequently visits the pond. Legal public access to the pond, however, is fragmented and, in some cases, allowed only with the tolerance of the property owner. Town staff have received several calls regarding legal access points and the Conservation Commission would like to formalize what is now custom and practice so that residents can receive meaningful directions when they call Town Hall. The Commission will also be meeting with the owners of property where trails currently exist to explore opportunities for legal public access.

In order to start the discussion, the commission has identified six options for improving access. The Commission has not made any decisions regarding public access. They will not be making any recommendations until they have heard from residents at the public forum. In addition to commenting on specific access points to Great Pond, the Commission would also like to hear comments regarding vehicle parking, boat storage, and use of motorized boats on Great Pond. All comments will be recorded and used to develop a recommendation to the Town Council.

For more information, contact the Town Planner at 799-0115 or ceplan@maine.rr.com.