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Why Our Ponds Matter
Why Our Ponds Matter
Our ponds are more than a scenic feature—they are part of a carefully designed stormwater management system that helps protect our neighborhood and local waterways.
As described in our Community Guidance, these ponds function as stormwater Best Management Practice (BMP) structures, designed to reduce runoff, capture sediment, and limit pollutants before they reach nearby streams and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay.
How They Protect Our Community
How They Protect Our Community
Collect stormwater runoff from streets and culverts
Allow sediment and debris to settle out
Filter pollutants naturally
Reduce flooding during heavy rain
Release cleaner water downstream
Why Maintenance Matters
Why Maintenance Matters
Our ponds require ongoing care to function properly. If they are not maintained, they can fail—leading to costly repairs or replacement and reduced effectiveness in protecting our neighborhood.
Because all roadside drains in our community flow directly into these ponds, everyday actions across the neighborhood directly impact their health.
Stormwater Management in Our Community
Stormwater Management in Our Community
The ponds throughout our neighborhood are part of a larger stormwater management system designed to safely collect and manage rainwater runoff.
During rainfall, water flows from streets, roofs, and yards into the pond system. These ponds are designed to:
Slow the flow of water to reduce downstream flooding
Allow sediment and pollutants to settle out
Improve water quality before it leaves the community
Maintenance responsibilities are shared between York County, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for certain roadway-related systems, and the HOA. While some structural components are publicly maintained, the HOA is responsible for the overall care and appearance of the pond areas.
Learn more about how stormwater impacts our community: York County Stormwater FAQ
Shoreline Care for Waterfront Homes
Shoreline Care for Waterfront Homes
Homeowners with pond frontage are asked to help protect water quality by maintaining a natural buffer along the shoreline.
Avoid mowing directly to the water’s edge
Leave a strip of grass or natural vegetation along the shoreline
Limit the use of fertilizers and chemicals near the shoreline
Stormwater runoff from lawns can flow directly into the ponds.
A natural buffer along the shoreline:
Filters nutrients and pollutants before they enter the water
Reduces shoreline erosion
Helps prevent excess algae growth
Supports a healthier environment for fish and wildlife
Even a small buffer of natural vegetation can make a meaningful difference.
Protecting Our Ponds Starts at Home
Protecting Our Ponds Starts at Home
Around Your Home
Around Your Home
Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of rinsing debris into the street
Keep grass clippings, leaves, and mulch out of roads and storm drains
Prevent soil, sand, and debris from washing off your property
Use fertilizers and lawn chemicals sparingly—especially before rain
Storm Drains & Streets
Storm Drains & Streets
Never dump anything into storm drains or roadside ditches
Avoid washing cars, equipment, or surfaces where runoff flows into the street
Do not blow or rake yard debris into drainage areas
Only rainwater should enter the storm drain system
Household Chemicals
Household Chemicals
Dispose of paint, chemicals, and solvents properly—not in drains or trash
Do not pour pool water or treated water into streets or storm drains
Clean tools and materials indoors where wastewater goes to the sanitary system
Everyday Impact
Everyday Impact
Our neighborhood drains directly into these ponds
Everyday actions influence what flows into them
Water quality, wildlife, and long-term maintenance costs are affected
Pond Use
Pond Use
Fishing is permitted for residents and their guests during daylight hours (dawn to dusk). Our ponds are periodically stocked to support a healthy fish population.
To help maintain balance:
Catch-and-release is encouraged
Do not introduce outside fish or wildlife
Dispose of fishing line, hooks, bait, and trash properly
Be respectful of others enjoying the space, including keeping noise at a reasonable level
Swimming or entering the ponds is not permitted.
Boats and other watercraft are not permitted.
Red-shouldered Hawk
Great Blue Heron
Wildlife
Wildlife
Our ponds support a variety of local wildlife, including geese, ducks, turtles, frogs, fish, and birds such as egrets, herons and hawks.
These animals are an important part of the ecosystem. To help protect them:
Do not feed wildlife
Do not disturb nesting or resting areas
Keep a safe distance from all animals
A healthy pond environment supports both wildlife and water quality. Wildlife sightings are a common and appreciated part of daily life in our community.
Safety & Responsible Use
Safety & Responsible Use
Because these ponds are engineered stormwater systems, responsible use helps protect both the environment and the neighborhood.
No swimming or wading
Banks may be uneven or slippery—use caution near the water
Children should be supervised at all times
Dispose of trash, fishing line, and bait properly
Responsible use helps:
Maintain water quality
Prevent erosion and infrastructure damage
Support a balanced ecosystem
Our ponds are a shared asset—thank you for helping keep them safe, clean,
and enjoyable for everyone.
Our ponds are a shared asset—thank you for helping keep them safe, clean,
and enjoyable for everyone.
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