Marchbanks Pond Fundraiser

PHASE 2

Fundraiser Link:

Marchbanks Pond Restoration Project Go Fund Me Campaign

Marchbanks Pond is a pond located in Wilmot Valley, in Prince County and is one of Prince Edward Island’s premier community fishing spots.  Whether you’re bait casting, fly fishing or spinning your chances of getting a bite here are good, so grab your favorite fly fishing rod and reel, and head out to Marchbanks Pond, all are welcome.

Marchbanks Pond is a 10-acre wetland on the Wilmot River near Wilmot Valley, Prince County, PEI. It was created in the 1800s as a power source for a grist and/or sawmill. Since the 1800’s Marchbanks Pond has been a historical landmark and popular fishing spot in central PEI; traditionally, this pond has provided a wonderful angling opportunity for Islanders alike. The natural open shorelines of this pond make it a great location for families, beginners, and avid anglers.

In 2021 the Marchbanks family and BBEMA partnered to work with an environmental contractor to undertake (Phase 1) of this site restoration, maintaining the structural integrity of the original 100 yr. old earth dyke through a structural rebuild and upgrading of the end of the dam that will allow for better fish passage via improved overflow through the spillway. Thank you to all our supporters whose donations through this fundraiser allowed us to complete Phase 1 of this important restoration project.

We are currently launching a 2022 fundraiser for Phase 2 of Marchbanks Pond Restoration with a goal of raising $7500.00

Historically the mouth of the spillway has incorporated the use of sandstone boulder/slabs to help stabilize water levels within the pond by slowing drainage. Over time the sandstone has eroded, resulting in increased water flow through the mouth of this spillway. Currently, the water level in the pond during July/August (low season) is 18-24 inches lower than it should be due primarily to the eroding sandstone bedrock at the mouth of the spillway. These yearly low water levels in the pond have resulted in excessive aquatic vegetation growth within the pond. This excessive vegetation is currently hindering access to recreational uses (angling/boating) as well as impacting fish habitat health.

The Marchbanks Pond Committee has been formed under the Bedeque Bay Environmental Management Association (BBEMA) to help make improvements to Marchbanks Pond, Wilmot River, Prince Edward Island.