Then and Now—Place of Play to Protected Site

Published: Dec 3, 2024

A picturesque view of the library pond in autumn
The Library pond is beautiful in any season, but shines especially in autumn. (Marlayna Demond '11/UMBC)

The afternoon sun dances on the water of the Library pond while fish swim below the surface. Most days, you see ducks enjoying the water. Unlike many newer places on campus, the pond has been one of UMBC’s iconic spots since the beginning. But the current generation of fish—and today’s Retrievers—don’t have a long enough memory to know that the pond was once a place of recreation for students.

Photos from UMBC’s 1969 yearbook, Skipjack, reveal students playing tug of war over the pond and other water activities such as rowing and ice skating. Splashing around in the pond is unimaginable today—signs tell those who come to the water feature about its importance to the natural wildlife and the delicate nature of the pond’s ecosystem.  he terrace and landscaping around the pond has been reshaped over the years to invite students, faculty, staff, and others to sit on nearby benches admiring the site’s natural beauty.

While students no longer play in its water, the pond has never been better monitored. UMBC’s Facilities Management works to keep the pond clean and safe for its many flora and fauna. “A little bit of care goes a long way,” says Ralph Ericksen, grounds manager of maintenance, who explains that Facilities Management is currently focused on controlling vegetation (mainly phragmites—the common reed—which if left unchecked can cause major problems), keeping invasive species out, and managing oxygenation levels in the water. His group works with UMBC’s Office of Sustainability to develop programs to educate students about why it’s important to conserve the pond for many generations of Retrievers to come. 

“Ponds create a wonderful atmosphere.” Ericksen commented. The fish and the ducks would agree with him and so would the many visitors over the years.

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