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WEST HILL POND ASSOCIATION

Who We Are

West Hill Pond Association is devoted to the preservation of West Hill Pond and its surrounding area to ensure the recreational future of the lake.

The West Hill Pond Association (WHPA) is a coalition of stakeholder organizations dedicated to the management and protection of West Hill Pond. As an Association of Associations, our Trustees and Officers represent a diverse group of interests, ensuring that all voices are heard in decisions affecting the lake. All Trustees and Officers serve on a volunteer basis, united by a shared commitment to preserving this vital resource.

WHPA owns, regulates, and controls the water rights to West Hill Pond, including:

  • Ownership and maintenance of the dam and gatehouse

  • Oversight of all appurtenances related to water management

  • Management of rights of way to and from the dam

By operating with a structured approach and clear directives, WHPA fosters collaboration among stakeholders and takes action in the best interests of the community. Through responsible stewardship, we work to sustain the health and longevity of West Hill Pond for generations to come.

WEST HILL POND ASSOCIATION

Our Mission

Our Mission

While the specific mission of the West Hill Pond Association (WHPA) is outlined in our bylaws, our overarching goal is:

To promote the well-being of the West Hill Pond community and the towns of New Hartford and Barkhamsted, Connecticut, by owning, regulating, and controlling the water rights to West Hill Pond; maintaining and improving water quality in the pond and its watershed; controlling and mitigating pollution; and implementing projects that support these objectives.

How We Operate

In practical terms, WHPA volunteers convene regularly to discuss matters affecting the lake and determine necessary actions. This often involves:

  • Collaborating with local and state agencies, scientists, and engineers

  • Engaging with stakeholders, residents, and the public

  • Identifying and securing funding sources to support key initiatives

The Trustees and Officers welcome community input on issues related to WHPA operations and the preservation of West Hill Pond’s water quality.

Stewardship & Dam Management

For over 50 years, WHPA has overseen all aspects of dam maintenance and safety. While the Association owns the dam, the land beneath it belongs to the Laurel Acres Property Owners’ Association (LAPOA), and the road crossing the dam is owned by the Town of Barkhamsted. This shared responsibility ensures the long-term stability of the pond and its surrounding infrastructure.