Shoreline Stabilization Project, Phase 2

With funding from an Albany County Parks Green Infrastructure Improvement Grant, the City of Albany and the Buckingham Pond Conservancy are expanding the shore stabilization work started last summer. The More Trees Arborist Cooperative was selected to remove invasive trees, shrubs and vines, and subsequently introduce native plants that help to decrease erosion, stabilize the shoreline, improve wildlife habitat, and make our park a more pleasant place.

Phase 2 of this work is building on the Buckingham Pond Conservancy’s Lake Management Plan and efforts completed by Buckingham Pond Conservancy in 2024 to implement the Phase 1 of the shoreline improvements with Jessica Marsico (That Garden Lady) and funded solely from Conservancy members and donors, with approvals obtained from the City of Albany through a Memoradum of Understanding.

Project Background & Acknowledgments

In May of 2024, the City of Albany has an opportunity to apply for County funding in support of municipal parks, and City of Albany’s Martin Daley and Albany County Legislator Gary Domalewicz reached out to the Buckingham Pond Conservancy to submit materials in support of the Albany County Municipal Park Improvement Initiative Grant.

The Conservancy was ready to respond, in large part due to efforts of board members Linda Wagner and Felton McLaughlin, who compiled the materials for submission. Having already sponsored Phase 1 work, we knew that we wanted to pursue additional funding, and that plans, estimates, and other materials that could be readily assembled to submit.

The City was awarded the funds from the County, and subsequently compiled a request for proposal for contractors to complete the Phase 2 work, and More Trees was awarded the contract. Thanks to More Trees for doing the work, Albany Department of General Services for sponsoring the RFP to do the work, City Arborist Jay Lavigne for leading the effort.

Scope of Work

Removals of invasives and shorelines stabiliziation–between the north side of the pond between Lenox for an approximate length of 200 feet towars the playground–was one part of the shoreline project. The other was to plant native species. On July 9, 2025, DGS, More Trees, and Conservancy and neighborhood volunteers planted over 60 new plants, representing over 15 species, including buttonbush, spicebush, elderberry, bald cypress, dogwood, and iris.

The More Trees crew was on hand to direct our work and advise us on how to maintain our new plantings. 

You Can Help

The new plantings still need help. In the heat of the summer, watering the new plantings is critical. If you are interested in helping, please email us at [email protected]

Thanks for your continued support!

Gabi Sarhos
Vice President
Buckingham Pond Conservancy