Another Great Annual Meeting!

Over 65 BPC members and interested residents gathered on Saturday, August 12 for the 2023 Annual Meeting at the Cape Cod Bible Alliance Church. The meeting started with a brief business session that included an overview of the BPC 2023 activities to date that included town-wide events, adult programs, outdoor activities, and the Pond Summit. While these activities support the BPC mission of “protecting and improving the health of Brewster’s ponds through science, education and advocacy,” Susan Bridges, President, further noted some broader examples of ongoing initiatives.  

Regarding BPC’s efforts toward science, the seasonal (May through October) work of the Citizen Science volunteers was reviewed showing the impressive dedication of the 53 volunteers that are involved in the bi-weekly cyanobacteria water quality monitoring project. In terms of education, the Pond Education program that includes a pond curriculum and field trips for 2nd and 5th graders was also reviewed. In addition, the BPC’s efforts in pond outreach to various pond neighborhood organizations was also highlighted, underscoring how BPC is continuing its advocacy of the health of Brewster’s ponds in many different ways in the community. 

The BPC “Splash Award” was presented to Kristi Dondlinger, an active volunteer who continues to support the organization with her time and talents in many capacities, including by participating in the Citizen Science team and Events Committee. 

Rob Condon, Treasurer, provided a financial summary that cited the overall financial health of the organization as well as how the BPC spends the donations of its members. This summary transitioned into the main presentation of the meeting, led by John Keith, Vice President. John’s presentation, entitled “Water Resource Planning: What is Needed for Brewster,” dove into the BPC’s position regarding a water resource action plan, what is and is not known regarding Brewster’s drinking water, pond impairment and its causes, and septic system impacts. He explained the BPC’s “Septic System Impact Study” that has just begun with the purpose of gaining a better understanding of how phosphorus travels from systems towards ponds. 

A lively discussion followed the presentations, with many questions raised and answered. Several members noted the positive work the BPC is doing to support its mission and continue to raise awareness within the community. 

You can view all the slides that were presented at the meeting by clicking here. The recorded presentation will be posted on the website and the BPC YouTube channel soon.  

Photographs courtesy of William F. Pomeroy. Top photo: Susan Bridges, President, addressing the audience.
​Bottom photo: Kristi Dondlinger commenting on her receipt of the "Splash Award," awarded by Nancy Ortiz, Secretary.