On June 19, Bare Hill Pond was teeming with aquatic activities. The traditional third-Saturday-of-the-month opening went off without a hitch, according to Waterfront Director Bizzy Herbolsheimer. The staff of the Parks and Recreation Commission worked diligently to make sure the grounds and facilities were safe and clean for patrons, and the Board of Health gave the go-ahead for swimming after the water testing results indicated there were no issues.
Now that the beach is officially open, lifeguards are on duty seven days a week until Labor Day during town beach hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, on very hot or busy days lifeguards may extend their hours for public safety. All lifeguards and beach personnel are certified by the American Red Cross as either Water Safety Instructors or Water Safety Aides, and all have CPR certification.
Residents looking for youth swim lessons will have a choice of three separate two-week sessions starting July 5. The town beach follows the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program, which includes six swimming levels. Swim instructors are available at the beach each day to test swimmers for the appropriate level, and adjustments will be made, if necessary, during the first week of lessons. There are still openings available; participants can register and pay online at harvardparkandrec.org.
Open swim starts every day at noon, when swim lessons are finished for the day. Herbolsheimer, who has been the waterfront director for the last three years, is excited to see the new season taking off so successfully. “We have over 200 children enrolled in our first session,” she told the Press this week. “We have a new head lifeguard, Kayti Bigelow, who has been with us for eight years. And our social director, Elise Bilodeau, a seven-year Rec Commission alum, is working hard to make this year’s bonfire a hit.”
The annual bonfire, scheduled for Aug. 6 at 6 p.m., is a summertime tradition at the beach. People can bring their own food and, according to Herbolsheimer, there will be a grill available. She cautions people to remember that no alcohol or pets are allowed on the beach at any time, due to health and safety regulations.
The rules of the pond are posted at the bottom of the parking lot and are available on the town website.
“It is important to remember that the rules are in place for a reason,” Herbolsheimer said. “We want to see everyone having a good time, but in a safe manner. Flotation devices, including those built into toddler bathing suits, are not allowed. Also, snorkel masks are prohibited because they can block a person’s airway in case of an emergency.”
She explained that the roped-off areas are designated by swim level and ability and noted that there is absolutely no swimming if there is a storm in the immediate area.
Beach stickers will be sold to town residents starting on June 25 at the entrance to Bare Hill Pond. Any questions relating to swim lessons or beach rules should be directed to Bizzy Herbolsheimer at bizzyherb@yahoo.com.