The Pinecrest Beach Improvement Association (PBIA) is pleased to share that Subtidal, a Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution spin-off, has deployed a solar-powered research buoy in Jenkins Pond. From now through October, the buoy will provide real-time, around-the-clock monitoring of cyanobacteria (harmful algal blooms) and key pond conditions.

 

This continuous data stream will complement the monthly sampling conducted by APCC, giving us both early warnings of bloom activity and deeper insights into what drives it. Subtidal’s team, led by WHOI scientist Dr. Matt Long, will deliver notifications when cyanobacteria blooms are detected, along with bimonthly reports that translate the science into clear, actionable guidance for our community.

 

Why this matters: The Cape Cod Commission has identified Jenkins Pond as “highly stressed” (19 out of 20 on its risk scale) due to septic density, nutrient loading, and other pressures. To keep our pond safe for swimming, fishing, and family use, we need to better understand:

• How much pond stress and cyanobacteria blooms are driven by internal factors versus external ones like runoff and septic systems

• Whether heavy rains and runoff accelerate bloom onset

• How environmental factors—such as oxygen levels, temperature, and pond stratification—contribute to bloom formation

Subtidal’s real-time monitoring is designed to help us answer these questions, anticipate bloom events before they’re visible, and protect pond health with earlier, more targeted action.

 

How you can help. We encourage all Jenkins Pond residents to report any algal scums you see using this simple form: Report a Bloom. Just open the form on your phone, share the scum’s location on the pond, and upload a photo. These community reports are extremely valuable: they directly improve Subtidal's real-time water safety estimates and help them refine detection algorithms for Jenkins Pond. The more reports they receive, the faster they can improve bloom detection and forecasting for our pond.

 

This pilot is made possible thanks to a generous PBIA member contribution, matched by their employer. Looking ahead, we hope to extend this collaboration into next season (April–October). If you are interested in supporting next year’s deployment, please reach out to PBIA at pbiafalmouth@gmail.com.