This nonpoint source remediation project will address sediment inputs from Belmont and Cambridge stormwater systems to Blair Pond, Claypit Pond and Little Pond, all tributary sources leading to Alewife Brook and the Mystic River. Phase I (FY2005) will address sediment sources through the installation of structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) throughout the watersheds of the above 3 ponds. BMPs will likely include storm drain retrofits and other devices to provide stormwater treatment, increased sediment storage and to help slow the flow and assist with the settling of sediment from stormwater prior to discharge. A buffer infiltration area with native plantings is also planned for the public access area at Blair Pond.

This proposed Phase I will provide the necessary source controls for sediment (that often provide a conduit for nutrients and bacteria) that are currently entering the ponds and ultimately contributing to Alewife Brook and the Mystic River. Once the sediment sources are addressed in Phase I, Phase II (FY 2006 319 application period) will concentrate on in-lake treatment features including the creation/enhancement of wetland treatment areas and the selective dredging of Blair Pond. This longer-termed phased approach will be a comprehensive plan, first to halt the input of sediment originating from further up into the watershed to the water bodies and second to improve the receiving water quality as well as enhance the immediate area surrounding the ponds.

The above project will include an education component that will involve the design and installation of customized storm drain markers and the distribution of public education material on non-point source pollution. Monitoring, as required by the grant program, will include pre and post construction wet weather sampling to likely obtain data on parameters such as total suspended solids and phosphorus.