Ashumet Pond – Linda Bound Sanctuary

Mashpee, Massachusetts, 35 acres – 2010

Although this property has a history of contamination from military activities associated with the adjacent Massachusetts Military Reservation, this 35 acre sanctuary is a key linkage in the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge. It includes part of a tributary wetland and stream that provides habitat for ducks and other water fowl and has 150 of frontage on Ashumet Pond in Mashpee. The sanctuary was recently dedicated to the memory of Linda Ann Bound, our beloved administrator of Orenda Wildlife Land Trust.

Plymouth Gentian (Sabatia kennedyana) is globally rare. Blooming in mid- and late summer, it is found along the shores of coastal plain ponds such as Ashument Pond.

photos copyright ©Farley Lewis

Directions: From the intersection of Route 151 and Sandwich Road in Falmouth, drive north on Sandwich Road until it becomes Back Road. Bear right at the sharp curve. From that junction, the property runs for 1,575 feet along Back Road. Look for a gate on the right and a pull off the road parking area. Walk down an ancient way path as far as you are able.

To view the property on the pond, continue driving east on Back Road. Take your first right on to Hooppole Road, and then your first right onto Ashumet Ave. Drive to the end and turn left on Wheeler Road and park immediately in the split fence area on your right. Walk down the old Macadam Road beyond the chain and post to the lake. The Orenda boundary begins there. Turn right and walk west along the beach area until you reach a small stream which is the western end of the Orenda sanctuary.