Howard County Bird Club

A Chapter of the Maryland Ornithological Society

Jackson Pond

Lightspun Lane, Columbia Maryland 21045

Size: 3-acre pond with limited amount of Columbia Association open space surrounding it.

Habitat: Although Jackson Pond was dredged in 2007, the edge vegetation has come back. Like several lakes and ponds in Columbia, the invasive water plant Creeping Primrose Willow (Jussiaea repens) has appeared during the warmer months.

Best Months: April–May; September until freeze-up.

Coverage Time: 30 minutes or less; longer if path extensions are explored.

Trails/Paths: A paved path encircles the pond. There are connections with the Columbia Association path system at both the north and south ends.

Notable Birds: Redhead, Northern Bobwhite, Black-crowned Night-Heron, White Ibis, Laughing Gull.

Amenities: Tot lot on the west side with a few nearby picnic tables; fishing pier and island on the east side; a few benches.

Handicapped Access: The paved path is mostly flat with a few gentle grades; the entire pond is visible and accessible.

Operation and Hours: Columbia Association property; 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Special Attractions: The pond.

Nearby Sites: Lake Elkhorn/Forebay Pond, Elkhorn Garden Plot, Sewell’s Orchard Community Park.

Compiler: Joanne Solem