The popular pond at Queen’s Park has dramatically lost almost 94% of its depth in some areas, prompting concerns about a potential “massive aquatic disappearance” of fish, turtles, and birds. This alarming situation was uncovered by Girl Scouts.
Emilia McKinney, a 17-year-old senior from Bronx Science High School, found that Golden Pond in Crochelon Park, Bayside, was contaminated with feces, harmful algae, and other pollutants.
She spent seven weeks testing the water quality as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, which she initiated after noticing green sludge overtaking the pond’s surface.
Locally known as “turtle pond,” this area is bowl-like, surrounded by slopes, which tends to trap sewage overflows and rainwater runoff, especially from the steep hills above.
Landslides became problematic after Hurricane Ida hit in 2021, causing significant erosion and bringing debris into the pond.
The retaining wall has yet to be repaired, leading to further deterioration due to recent flash floods. Before Emilia’s work brought attention to it, the severity of the problem wasn’t fully recognized.
In fact, the shallowest point of the pond now measures only 6 inches deep, compared to over 7 feet in 1969—indicating a staggering 93.55% decrease in depth over the past 60 years. The deepest area has lost 48% in the same period.
“With the shallowness, the water warms up, promoting algae growth—it’s a cycle,” Emilia explained.
Excess rainwater drags debris, mud, and trash into the pond through the compromised retaining wall.
“This could result in a significant loss of aquatic life, impacting fish and geese that rely on the pond,” she stated.
Emilia tested the water weekly for various factors such as pH and dissolved oxygen. Unfortunately, without lab access, she rated the water quality as “medium” at best, potentially much worse.
She highlighted that a failing pond could also lead to severe flooding on the nearby Cross Island Parkway, which is already vulnerable during storms.
Her views, however, contrast with the City Parks department’s assessment, which suggests that the pond remains relatively healthy and supports diverse wildlife, according to agency representative Judd Faulkner.
Faulkner acknowledged Emilia’s enthusiasm, mentioning ongoing efforts to improve vegetation and environment in park areas.
Despite this, Emilia suspects that insufficient funding is preventing Golden Pond from receiving the attention it needs, urging for more intensive research on its future.
The deteriorating retaining wall is a concern that lies with homeowners on Corbett Road. Attempts to reach them for comment were unsuccessful.
“I think the main goal should be preventing further degradation,” Emilia concluded.
