The Town of Wellesley contains many ponds and streams, most linked in some way and ultimately sending water to the Charles River. Ten of these ponds are considered public and are managed by the NRC through a comprehensive management plan, finalized in 2005. This plan has helped Wellesley greatly improve the quality of water discharged downstream.
Studies of the ponds have shown that the number one cause of poor water quality is excess plant food. Lawn fertilizer and storm water runoff provide a continuous source for this excess food. Through information and education, the NRC is working to reduce this problem.