Quicksand Pond in Little Compton is Buzzards Bay’s largest natural salt pond. A barrier beach typically separates the pond from the Bay’s open waters except for when storms break a channel through the beach. Quicksand Pond’s relatively remote location has helped prevent pollution in the past, but local residents have recently noticed changes. Monitoring began in 2016 to get a picture of the pond’s health, which is currently in fair condition.
Quicksand Pond Snapshot
49
out of 100
Bay Health Index (5-year average)
poor
fair
good
49
49
out of 100
Supporting Data
There are four sampling stations on Quicksand Pond: Center (QP1), The Gut (QP3), Cold Book (QPC1), and Tributary (QPR1).
Quicksand Pond: Center (Station QP1)
Dissolved oxygen, nitrogen, algae, and water clarity measurements taken from a boat in the center of the pond. (41.50552, -71.13158)
Total Nitrogen
Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen
Total Organic Nitrogen
Dissolved Oxygen
All Measurements
Average of Lowest 20%
Algal Pigments
Total Pigments
Water Clarity
Yearly Average
Quicksand Pond: The Gut (Station QP3)
Dissolved oxygen and water clarity measurements taken from a boat in the center of “The Gut” cove on pond’s eastern side. (41.51166, -71.12849)
Dissolved Oxygen
All Measurements
Average of Lowest 20%
Water Clarity
Yearly Average
Quicksand Pond: Cold Brook (Station QPC1)
Nitrogen and algae measurements taken from shore by the culvert at Quicksand Pond Road. (41.520506, -71.137723)
Total Nitrogen
Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen
Total Organic Nitrogen
Algal Pigments
Total Pigments
Quicksand Pond: Tributary (Station QPR1)
Nitrogen and algae measurements taken from wooden bridge over unnamed tributary leading to The Gut. (41.5153, -71.129)
Total Nitrogen
Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen
Total Organic Nitrogen
Algal Pigments
Total Pigments
Bay Health data is funded in part by the Massachusetts Environmental Trust.
