Carlton Pond Waterfowl Production Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Carlton Pond Waterfowl Production Area |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Carlton Pond Waterfowl Production Area
Location in Maine
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| Location | Waldo County, Maine United States |
| Nearest city | Troy, Maine |
| Area | 1,055-acre (4.27 km2) |
| Established | 1966 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Carlton Pond Waterfowl Production Area |
Carlton Pond Waterfowl Production Area is a special place in Maine, United States. It's a large area of water and wetlands, about 1,055-acre (4.27 km2) big. This area is located in the town of Troy in Waldo County, Maine. The pond was created by an earthen dam that holds back Carlton Brook. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service bought this land in 1966. Their main goal is to protect the many waterfowl (water birds) and other wildlife that live here.
About Carlton Pond WPA
This area is called a "Waterfowl Production Area" because it's a great spot for ducks, geese, and other water birds to live and raise their young. It's an important natural space in Central Maine.
The Dam's Story
The first dam at Carlton Pond was built way back in 1850. It was made of rocks and helped power a sawmill. In 1972, the Fish and Wildlife Service rebuilt the dam. This was to make sure it stayed strong and kept the pond, marsh, and wetland areas healthy. These areas were all created by the original dam. There's also a natural overflow area nearby. This helps high water escape safely and protects the dam. A special path allows people to get to the dam for maintenance and for public use.
Special Animals and Plants
Carlton Pond is one of the few places in Maine where black terns nest. These birds are on Maine's endangered species list, meaning they are at risk of disappearing. Scientists from the state and federal government have been watching black terns here for several years. They want to understand how many there are and how to help them.
This area has always been a good home for waterfowl and other birds. So far, people have seen 33 different kinds of birds using the lands and waters of Carlton Pond. Many of these bird species are becoming fewer in number. A special plant called the Slender Blue Flag has also been seen at Carlton Pond. This plant is listed as Threatened by the State of Maine, meaning it also needs protection.
