Local news

Limited beach space is constantly directing park-goers to the unrestricted section of Walden Pond’s shoreline.

Dead set on enjoying the scenic views and refreshing waters of Walden Pond, beachgoers are reportedly damaging the shoreline.

According to WBZ, park officials say tourists are pushing their way onto the shores of the historic Kettle Pond, going as far as cutting or bending through fencing and hacking away at plant life in undesignated areas. Reports.

Above average rainfall has raised the water level of the pond. Abandoned the beach About 60 feet long and 15 feet wide. State officials estimate the shoreline will likely remain underwater until fall, if not longer.

Nearby beaches have been closed due to high bacteria levels due to the rain, which is likely to result in an influx of visitors to Walden’s already cramped beach space.

“We’ll see people try to bring in really big, almost pop-up tent-type things, tables, swings, people try to bring in grills,” Walden Pond Park Supervisor Lisa Little told WBZ.

Others have taken it further by walking past posted “stay on the trails” signs and leaving downed trees in their wake.

“Even the trees that are around, you’ll see broken branches, where people have tried to steady themselves so they don’t slip,” Little told the outlet. “Some people come here and it’s just a swimming hole for them. They don’t realize the important history.”

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) said similar behavior began at the pond in early summer. DCR officials shared. video At the time, people expressed frustration at trampling over vegetation and wildlife habitats in search of places to sit.

DCR said visitors should visit other state parks and beaches instead of Walden Pond until the high water level recedes.