Ninigret Pond, also known as Salter’s Pond, is a coastal saltwater lagoon located in the town of Charlestown, Rhode Island. It is the largest of the salt ponds in the state and covers approximately 1,507 acres. The history of Ninigret Pond dates back to ancient times and is closely tied to the indigenous peoples who inhabited the region.
The pond takes its name from the prominent Niantic sachem, Chief Ninigret, who was a powerful leader of the Niantic tribe in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The Niantic people had a complex society and relied on the rich natural resources provided by the coastal environment, including Ninigret Pond. The pond was a vital source of fish, shellfish, waterfowl, and other wildlife that sustained the Niantic community.
European colonizers arrived in the region in the early 17th century, leading to significant changes in the landscape and the way of life for the indigenous peoples. The colonizers recognized the strategic and economic value of the salt ponds, including Ninigret Pond, for fishing, shellfishing, and salt production. They established saltworks along the shores of the pond, where seawater was evaporated to produce salt for preserving food and other uses.
Throughout the colonial period, Ninigret Pond remained an important resource for the local economy, supporting industries such as fishing, shellfishing, and agriculture. The surrounding land was used for farming, and the pond itself was actively harvested for its abundant fish and shellfish populations.
In the 19th century, the industrial revolution brought further changes to Ninigret Pond and its surroundings. The growth of nearby towns and the expansion of transportation networks facilitated the export of seafood products from the pond to urban markets. Commercial fishing and shellfishing industries boomed, leading to increased pressure on the pond’s ecosystems.
By the early 20th century, concerns about pollution and overfishing began to arise as the health of Ninigret Pond and its marine life deteriorated. Conservation efforts were initiated to protect the pond and its valuable resources. In 1970, Ninigret Pond was designated as a no-discharge area, meaning that no raw sewage could be discharged into the pond.
Today, Ninigret Pond continues to be a significant ecological and recreational resource for the region. It supports diverse habitats, including salt marshes, seagrass beds, and tidal flats, that are essential for numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. The pond is also popular for boating, fishing, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities, attracting visitors and enthusiasts from near and far.
Efforts are ongoing to protect and preserve Ninigret Pond for future generations, ensuring that its historical significance and ecological value are respected and maintained. Through collaboration between government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities, Ninigret Pond remains a cherished natural treasure and a testament to the enduring connection between humans and the environment.