Keeping Our Waters Safe: Why We’re Sponsoring the 2026 Brewster Ponds Coalition Summit

There is nothing quite like summer in Brewster. Between the warm afternoons, the coastal breeze, and the family traditions, our local freshwater ponds are the absolute heartbeat of the season. Whether you are taking a cooling dip in Long Pond, kayaking through Sheep Pond, or watching the kids splash around, these waters are what make Cape Cod life so incredibly special.

But as the summer heat kicks into gear, our ponds face a silent, seasonal challenge: cyanobacteria (harmful blue-green algae blooms).

As real estate professionals who specialize in waterfront properties and as neighbors who love these waters just as much as you do — The Leighton Team believes that protecting our natural resources is a shared community responsibility. That is why we are incredibly proud to return as a business partner and sponsor for the Brewster Ponds Coalition’s 12th Annual Pond Summit.

What is the Pond Summit?

The Annual Pond Summit is the community’s premier space to learn exactly what is happening beneath the surface of our local waters. This year’s theme, "How Brewster Protects Pond Users from Cyanobacteria Blooms," focuses directly on the actionable steps being taken to keep us, our children, and our pets safe this summer.

Did you know? Summer’s rising water temperatures and sudden heavy rains can trigger sudden, potentially toxic cyanobacteria blooms. This summit is designed to give you the data, the science, and the peace of mind you need before hitting the water.

Why Your Attendance Matters

Taking care of Brewster’s ecosystems isn't just up to the town - it takes a village. At this year's summit, you’ll get direct updates from the local experts leading the charge:

• 10 Years of Data: Ron Essig, BPC Board Member and Citizen Science Leader, will highlight a decade of findings from the coalition’s signature monitoring program. He’ll explain how their dedicated team of 57 volunteers tracks 19 Brewster ponds bi-weekly and how that data gets fast-tracked to town officials.
  
  
• Town Response & Rules: Dan Syriala, Director of the Brewster Health Department, will pull back the curtain on how the Town evaluates algae risk, how and when safety warnings are posted, and give an update on the new septic system setback regulations aimed at curbing nutrient runoff.
  
  

Event Details: Save Your Spot!

We would love to see our clients, friends, and neighbors fill the room. Come grab a coffee on us and join the conversation.

• 🗓️ When: Saturday, June 13
  
  
• 🕘 Time: Check-in at 9:00 AM | Presentations run from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
  
  
• 📍 Where: Brewster Ladies' Library Auditorium (1622 Main Street)
  
  
• 💰 Cost: FREE and open to the public!
  
  

Our Commitment to Brewster

At The Leighton Team, we don't just sell homes here; we invest in the lifestyle and natural beauty that draws people to Cape Cod in the first place. Our ponds are invaluable environmental assets and economic drivers for our town, and we are honored to stand alongside the Brewster Ponds Coalition to ensure they remain clean, safe, and beautiful for generations to come.

Before you pack your beach bag for the weekend, join us this Saturday morning to support the incredible volunteers keeping our waters pristine.

👉 See you there!