Lake Nipmuc

Lake Nipmuc

Lake Nipmuc is a wonderful natural resource here in the town of Mendon. The lake is a Great Pond measuring about 90 acres and at it's deepest point is 27 feet deep. The Mendon Town Beach at 45 Taft Ave is open in the summer for swimming and also hosts a summer recreation program for kids. Adjacent to the Town Beach is a small access path for non-motorized crafts (kayaks, canoes, more information at the bottom of this page). There is protected Conservation Land named Meadow Brook Uplands with trail access and parking near the end of Kinsley Lane. 

Links

Laws & Regulations

Please be aware of the state law & local regulations that govern Lake Nipmuc:

Activities within the 100-foot Buffer Zone may be subject to regulations under the MA Wetlands Protection Act, the Mendon Wetlands Protection By-law, and MA Ch. 91 Regulations. You may need to acquire a permit before work. Unpermitted work may be subject to enforcement action.

Community

The Lake Nipmuc Association is a group for homeowners on the lake. Their contact can be shared by contacting the Conservation office. 

Events on or by Lake Nipmuc include:

  • Boat Parade - Lake Nipmuc Association
  • Cardboard Boat Race - Taft Public Library - 2025 was the 25th anniversary and a huge turnout!
  • Rock the Block - Facebook Page

What kind of activities are regulated under Wetland Laws?

The Conservation Commission regulates activities that may impact protected Resource Areas and Buffer Zones. Permitting is required for work in the lake, within 100 feet of the lake and/or vegetated wetlands, and in the flood plain. Work requiring permits includes docks and piers, placement of sand, aquatic weed control, retaining walls, bank stabilization and similar projects. 

What does the Commission Consider for Beaches and Docks?

When considering an application, the Commission looks at several aspects of the project including: 

  • Is the work above or below the mean annual low or high water?
  • What resource areas are present on the site - vegetated wetlands, bank, floodplain etc. 
  • Will the project fill a floodplain and have the potential for impacting downstream areas? 
  • If it’s a beach, how long has it existed? 
  • If a dock, will it block vegetation underneath or interfere with water circulation, fish passage or boat navigation? Is there a pre-existing dock made of wood that is falling apart? Would a seasonal aluminum dock have less environmental impact?
  • How will construction occur and what sort of ongoing maintenance might be needed? 
  • What materials will be used, including information such as floats or type of sand for beach nourishment? 
  • If a seasonal dock, how will it be removed and where will it be stored 
  • Is the work accessory to a place of residence or is it intended for public use?

Please contact the Mendon Conservation Commission for guidance on permitting by calling 508-634-6898 or emailing Mendon Conservation Commission. It is best to reach out to the office early in the planning process to determine what may be required. If you already have a dock or beach that you want to bring into compliance please also contact the office. Use this link to start a new permit.

 Residents observing violations are encouraged to contact the local police (508-473-2727) or the state environmental police (508-753-0603).

Non-Motorized Water Craft Access Point

Adjacent to the Mendon Town Beach (45 Taft Ave) is a small access path for non-motorized crafts (kayaks, canoes, etc) completed by Eagle Scout David Fleury on 7/21/11.  All boats must be carried down to the water as the ramp is not wide enough for trailers.  

There is no public access or boat ramp on the lake for any motorized watercraft requiring a trailer.

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