In spring 2024, Buckingham Pond Conservancy committed funding to begin implementing several of the shoreline improvements recommended in the Lake Management Plan. Thanks to the generous support of our members and donors over the past few years, we’ve been able to set aside a portion of these funds for meaningful improvements along some of the pond’s most visible and well-loved public areas.

After several years of planning, we launched Phase 1 of a project that will stabilize 360 linear feet of shoreline and introduce approximately 1,200 native perennials and shrubs. The planting plan was developed with guidance from former Board Members Laura Shaddak, Landscape Architect, and Mark Schlessman, Professor of Plant Biodiversity at Vassar College. Their expertise helped shape a design that’s both ecologically sound and visually beautiful.

With approval from the City of Albany Department of General Services and the Albany Water Department, the Conservancy engaged Jessica Marsico (That Garden Lady) to lead the work. Jessica’s approach emphasizes protecting the pond’s delicate littoral habitats, minimizing soil disturbance, and using only natural, native materials. She worked entirely without machinery, relying instead on hand tools and jute fabric (not synthetic mats) to create a stable and sustainable shoreline.

The restoration process included building low-profile berms to control erosion, reinforcing the shoreline with native soil, river rocks, and green slate, and planting a diverse mix of aquatic plants, shrubs, and native grasses.

This initiative reflects our shared commitment to protecting the pond’s ecology while enhancing its beauty for everyone who visits. We can’t wait to see these improvements take root and thrive!

See detailed planned planting list. Not all plants may have been available at local native nurseries at the time of the work.