Now, the hope is Westmoreland will follow suit.

Northumberland Board of Supervisors has approved an official call for Gardy’s Mill Pond to be restored to its original state— one of four options presented at a recent public information meeting hosted by the Department of Wildlife Resources.

Chairman James Brann raised the issue at a special meeting this month. Following a conversation between a resident on Gardy’s Mill Road and Delegate Hillary Pugh Kent, Brann said he was advised that if Northumberland adopted a resolution of support— and if Westmoreland did the same—Kent and Senator Richard Stuart would try to seek funding for the project.

“We’re trying to promote the county and we have very few things that we can use to promote the county. Those old freshwater ponds—people enjoy going fishing, taking the kids and grandkids,” said Brann.

“Not only that, I look at them as historical landmarks,” he added, noting that the county has already lost one. “We can’t afford to lose another one because that’s it.”

“I think we need to have that resolution put forth. I’ve heard some discussions and some information has come to light here lately that needs to be sent forward and people need to realize what’s going on,” said Supervisor Keith Harris.

“And you never know when the fire trucks are going to need a little extra water,” said Supervisor A.C. Fisher, Jr.

Brann said that problem has already arisen. Westmoreland had a fire where water access was an issue, but Gardy’s Mill Road was blocked off—and even if crews had reached the pond, the dry hydrant was not extended into the water.

After the board passed the resolution of support, the county administrator was instructed to contact Westmoreland to deter‑mine their position on the matter and to see whether they will also pass a resolution.