Birdwatching in Vermont, pp. 103-105.

To reach Berlin Pond, take Exit 7 from I-89. Turn right at the first stoplight onto Paine Turnpike. Drive 0.2 miles and turn right on Crosstown Road (near a flagpole and large boulder monument on the right). Immediately after passing under the interstate, turn left onto a dirt road and drive a few tenths of a mile to the pond. Investigate the pond in a 5.6 -mile counter-clockwise loop. Remember to watch for traffic, be aware that the shoreline is off-limits, and please respect private property.

Due to its size and the relatively undeveloped nature of the pond and associated uplands, Berlin Pond is home to a host of priority species including the state-endangered Common Loon. The diverse wetlands contain Pied-billed Grebe, Sora, American Bittern, and Virginia Rail. Uplands support the suite of species typically associated with northern hardwood forest including Ovenbird, Black-throated Green, and Blue warblers, and all but the high elevation thrushes. Other species commonly seen are the state endangered Osprey and Bald Eagle and the state threatened Black Tern.

Berlin Pond, located just west of Berlin is one of the last undeveloped waterbodies in the State of Vermont due to its primary function as a municipal water supply for Montpelier and Berlin. The pond is approximately 270 acres. Emergent marsh and shrub swamp can be found adjacent to the pond. Associated with the pond are equally undeveloped uplands of characteristic northern hardwood forest which grade into wetter forests of cedar, red maple, and black ash. Vermont Natural Community Types include Northern Hardwood Forest, Northern White Cedar, and Sweet Gale Shoreline swamp, and Shallow Emergent and Cattail marsh.

The undisturbed nature of Berlin Pond makes it unique in the state. Local conservation committees have worked hard to protect the pond and its watershed. The biggest threat is the development of a new water plant that may diminish the need to keep Berlin Pond in its pristine state. As a result of the new plant, restrictions may be lifted allowing greater recreational use of the site. This increased use would result in higher disturbance rates and could potentially spread invasive plants such as Eurasian Milfoil throughout the pond.

Berlin Pond (293 acres) is a site for the Vermont LoonWatch annual survey. Birders are encouraged to volunteer as often and whenever they are able. See Join LoonWatch for details.