The Sheldrake River originates in the northern neighborhoods of New Rochelle, flowing south through several impoundments. The northernmost is Carpenters Pond, followed in a southerly direction by Dickermans Pond, Sheldrake Lake, Goodlife Pond and, finally, Gardens Lake. Each of these impoundments, or ponds, is formed by a dam across the Sheldrake River. Each traps sediment from the river. In fact, Dickermans Pond is no longer a pond at all. It has completely filled in with sediment, providing a medium for invasive plant species like common reeds (Phragmites) and Japanese knotweed. A residential neighborhood and Interstate 95 bound Gardens Lake, known as the “duck pond.” This lake also experiences rapid sedimentation, requiring periodic and costly dredging. The accumulation of sediment degrades the lake’s ecosystem and water quality in the lake and downstream Sheldrake River, Mamaroneck River and Long Island Sound. It also detracts from the lake’s recreational and aesthetic values.

The lake will be fully rejuvenated as part of a comprehensive, multi-phase restoration project to be completed by the end of 2006. The first phase of this work involved the construction of a sediment trap where the Sheldrake River enter the lake in the fall 2004. The trap consists of a concrete block and stone weir (underwater wall) across the lake’s entrance. Sediment, leaves and other material carried by the river into the lake will drop out of suspension by the slower waters behind the weir, thereby preventing it from entering the lake. The sediment trap will need to be cleaned out at least once a year, but this will be far less costly over the long-term than dredging the entire lake. The second project phase will involve dredging the lake, establishing wetland habitats in and around the lake, adding a vegetated filter strip along the lake shores, and installing underground sediment traps where stormwater pipes enter the lake.

To View The Site: The site is next to Myrtle Boulevard and Lakeside Drive (off of Weaver Street) in the Town of Mamaroneck. The pond is surrounded by town parkland and a walking path runs alongside its western and northern shores.