Workers take advantage of broken pump to improve fish habitat at Branch Park Pond

  • Published
  • By Patti Kumazawa
  • Environmental Management
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Environmental Management workers and volunteers are taking advantage of a broken water pump to clean up and improve fish habitat this winter at the 40-year-old Branch Memorial Park Pond. Pump repair is expected to be completed by April. 

"With dropping water levels, now is the smart time to act," said Mark Hagan, natural resource manager for the base. EM 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. 

In addition to the removal of bulrushes and cattails growing near the shore, Hagan said the cleanup will include the repair and installation of additional fish habitat structures and aerators that will supply better oxygen levels 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. 

While the pump is under repair, Branch Memorial Park and Pond will remain open.
"Branch Memorial Park is an oasis in the desert," Hagan said. "It's a great recreational asset for the base." 

The park, which is available only to those with base access, is more than a fishing hole. Bird watching and picnicking also attract people there. The 14-acre park features shaded picnic tables, playground equipment, large trees and restrooms. Nature walks are also an option. The area surrounding the park boasts one of the thickest groves of native mesquite trees in Los Angeles County. Joshua trees and many other native species are abundant as well.
 
Once the water supply is restored, EM workers plan to stock the pond with more fish. The pond is regularly stocked with largemouth bass, channel catfish, and sometimes trout. Bluegills also live there. 

A state fishing license is not required, so anyone with a base fishing permit may fish at the pond. Base fishing 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.