City Reports Safe Water Quality at Brick Pond Park After Recent Complaints

In the heart of North Augusta, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the council chamber to address pressing environmental concerns regarding Bridal Pond Parks. The meeting, held on July 21, 2025, provided a platform for city representatives to share findings from recent water quality tests that have been the subject of community scrutiny.

City officials reported that water samples taken from Brick Pond Park revealed no signs of contamination or illicit discharges, alleviating concerns raised by residents. The results, which comply with South Carolina's water classification standards, indicated that the water quality is safe, with no evidence of sewer line overflow affecting the park. This news comes after residents had expressed worries about the health of the aquatic environment, particularly following reports of distressed wildlife.

The superintendent of STEM Water Services detailed the testing process, which included measuring dissolved oxygen levels and water temperature. While the dissolved oxygen readings were lower than optimal, they were deemed typical for a wetland environment. Notably, the city clarified that the largemouth bass observed in the park were not introduced by city staff, as the ponds were designed for species that can tolerate lower oxygen levels. This clarification aimed to dispel rumors circulating on social media regarding the health of the fish population.

In addition to addressing water quality, the city is taking proactive measures to manage invasive species in the ponds. Plans for herbicide application to control water hyacinth and other weeds were temporarily postponed to allow the ecosystem to stabilize following the recent repairs to the park's waterfalls and aeration systems.

As the meeting concluded, officials reassured the community that ongoing monitoring and testing would continue, with results from additional nutrient testing expected in the coming weeks. The council's commitment to transparency and environmental stewardship reflects a broader dedication to maintaining the health of North Augusta's natural resources, ensuring that residents can enjoy the beauty of Bridal Pond Parks without concern for their safety.