Support the Health of Great Hill Pond

Protecting Great Hill Pond for future generations

Public safety notice: A cyanobacteria bloom, also known as blue-green algae, was identified on Great Hill Pond on August 1. Until official guidance is issued, please avoid contact with the water, and keep children and pets away from it as well.

Read the notice

Public safety notice: cyanobacteria bloom

Identified Saturday, August 1, 2026

A cyanobacteria bloom, also known as blue-green algae, was identified on Great Hill Pond on Saturday, August 1, and reported by the Hartford Courant. CT DEEP has asked the Chatham Health District to issue a formal advisory.

Until more is known and that official guidance is issued, please avoid contact with the water, and keep children and pets away from it as well.

We will share the Chatham Health District's guidance as soon as it is available.

Read about the July 22 Fanwort treatment →

Portland's Hidden Gem

Friends of Great Hill Pond is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and improving the health and recreational value of Great Hill Pond in Portland, Connecticut. Our community depends on this cherished natural resource for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and gathering.

Through community fundraising, conservation efforts, and environmental monitoring, we work to ensure Great Hill Pond remains vibrant and accessible for residents and visitors for generations to come.

Hydrilla Watch: This highly invasive aquatic weed is spreading in Connecticut waterways and is not yet in Great Hill Pond. Early detection is critical — know what to look for and report any sightings immediately.

Learn & Report