Cape Cod Commission Releases Final Cape Cod Freshwater Strategy 

Data-driven approaches to evaluate, protect, and restore the region’s ponds and lakes 

The Cape Cod Commission is pleased to announce the release of the final Freshwater Strategy, a comprehensive, data-driven plan that defines a path forward for Cape Cod to support healthy, functioning ponds and lakes.  

Grounded in extensive research, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement, the Freshwater Strategy provides a framework for improving the health of Cape Cod’s ponds and lakes. It identifies key challenges, proposes targeted solutions, and offers actionable strategies for municipalities, pond organizations, and community stakeholders to ensure long-term water quality and ecosystem health.  

“Cape Cod’s ponds and lakes are a fundamental element of the region’s identity,” said Cape Cod Commission Executive Director, Kristy Senatori. “The Freshwater Strategy defines key regional and impactful recommendations to ensure these water resources are prioritized and protected for future generations.” 

The Cape Cod Freshwater Strategy highlights the urgent need to prioritize pond health across Cape Cod. The plan includes thirteen key recommendations to improve the region’s understanding of ponds and lakes, support improved freshwater habitats and water quality, and enable local and regional action. Recommendations include in part: 

• Maintain and expand funding for the Regional Pond Monitoring Program. 

• Develop a regional funding program for town projects. 

• Promote best practices and universally beneficial strategies. 

• Integrate freshwater ponds into municipal water resource planning. 

• Improve consistent communication and outreach for varied pond users. 

• Develop model wetland bylaws and orders of conditions. 

• Foster appreciation and respect for Cape Cod’s ponds. 

The Strategy includes a suite of tools and resources to support implementation, including:  

• The Cape Cod Water Quality Data Portal, a map-based viewer that allows users to explore freshwater and marine water quality data and trends compiled by the Cape Cod Commission for our regional partners. 

• The Regional Pond Monitoring Program, now in its third year, collects data from a representative sample of ponds across Cape Cod to provide insight into regional freshwater pond quality. Funding has been secured to continue the program beyond its initial three years.  

• The Pond Restoration Projects Viewer, a map-based viewer that identifies pond-specific challenges, strategies, results and lessons learned to inform further action across Cape Cod ponds. 

• Cape Cod Freshwater Pond Buffer Guidance, a comprehensive document designed to help homeowners and municipalities preserve and protect ponds through responsible landscape management. 

• The Pond Strategies Database, which includes data, information, and case studies on a range of technologies, regulatory and voluntary options, and management approaches. 

The final strategy incorporates comments and suggestions from the public gathered during the public comment period, which ran from February 14, 2025 to March 17, 2025.  

By fostering greater public awareness and encouraging proactive conservation efforts, the strategy aims to inspire action at both the local and regional levels. Through consistent messaging and broad community engagement, the strategy encourages a deeper appreciation for Cape Cod’s freshwater ponds and lakes and the steps needed to protect them for future generations. 

For more information and to access the Cape Cod Freshwater Strategy, visit www.capecodcommission.org/freshwater.