Gillett Pond was formed in the mid-1800s to power a local mill. In 1902 the current dam was built to stabilize flows to a small hydroelectric generating station at Huntington Gorge. Since then, decades of water and weather have taken a toll on the structure.

In 2013, State safety inspectors recommended removing or replacing the dam. But because removal would be catastrophic to the ecosystem and area communities, local citizens formed Friends of Gillett Pond to find a way to save a much-loved, much-used treasure.

Working with fellow volunteers at the Richmond Land Trust, we launched an extraordinary, multi-town fund-raising effort to purchase the Pond and ensure its long-term survival. Within two months enough was raised so the Richmond Land Trust could acquire the Pond, adjoining land and dam.

The Friends then hired an engineering firm to design a new, stronger and safer dam. After numerous meetings with state and federal authorities, and the review of several designs, we now have a detailed plan and construction estimates for the dam. To make that plan a reality and save the Pond, we invite you to join the Friends of Gillett Pond today.