Branch Pond receives facelift to improve fish habitat, fishing access Published April 6, 2011 By Edwards AFB Environmental Management EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Branch Memorial Park Pond will undergo clean-up this spring as workers remove excess vegetation and soil from the 40-year old pond to improve both fish habitat and access for fishermen. The water level is being allowed to drop and work is expected to begin in late May or early June. Once excavation has been completed the water will be turned back on and fish will be stocked in the pond. "The pond has become overgrown with cattails and we need to improve the quality of the pond for base personnel," said Mark Hagan, natural resource manager for the base. Environmental Management staff is coordinating cleanup and maintenance activities at the 5-acre pond, which is located at the park about a mile north of the South Gate, just west of Lancaster Boulevard. Besides the removal of cattails growing in the pond, Hagan said the cleanup will include the repair and installation of additional fish habitat structures and aerators needed to help provide oxygen to the water. The project will increase fishing access, reduce line snags for fishing enthusiasts and improve the pond's overall quality once the water level returns to normal later this year. Both the park and the pond will remain open while water levels are dropping. "Branch Memorial Park is an oasis in the desert," Mr. Hagan said. "It's a great recreational asset for the base." Besides fishing, bird watching and picnicking attract people to the park. The 14-acre park - available only to those with base access - features shaded picnic tables, playground equipment, large trees and restrooms. Nature walks are also an option at the park. The area surrounding the park boasts one of the thickest groves of native mesquite trees in Los Angeles County, Mr. Hagan said. Joshua trees and many other native species are in abundance as well. Once the water supply is restored, EM officials plan to stock the pond with more fish. Officials regularly stock the pond with largemouth bass, channel catfish, and sometimes trout. Bluegill also live in the pond. A state fishing license is not required, so anyone with a base fishing permit may fish at the pond. Permits may be obtained from Outdoor Recreation, 1100 Kincheloe Ave., or the Rod and Gun Club, 210 Adams Way, during regular business hours. For more information on the pond cleanup and maintenance, contact Environmental Management at (661) 277-1401