Theta Pond
Theta Pond is situated between the student union and Greek life. Theta Pond serves various purposes for students and visitors alike. It's a popular spot for studying, taking a peaceful jog or walk, and even watching ducks swimming peacefully in the water. The pond is an ideal location for photos, with its picturesque fountains and bridges providing a beautiful backdrop. During homecoming, Theta Pond becomes the focal point of traditions and festivities, illuminated by vibrant lights.
Tree Sculpture
Sculpture Artist: Clayton Cross
Theta Pond is celebrated for its park-like ambiance, largely due to the shade provided by the stunning bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) trees that surround it. These trees not only offer shade but also create a habitat for various animals, including birds and fish. Their tall canopies attract numerous bird species, particularly those that prefer to be near water. The cypress roots provide structure for both terrestrial creatures and aquatic life. As deciduous trees, bald cypresses shed their leaves into the water, releasing tannins that darken the water and help inhibit algae growth.
In the spring of 2024, a lightning strike damaged one of these bald cypresses, stripping its bark and ultimately killing it. Instead of removing this integral part of the ecosystem, the tree's trunk was carved into a sculpture. This sculpture of a young girl reading represents the students who walk this campus daily. Though they will grow older, the statue will remain eternally youthful. The lightning bolt etched on the side pays tribute to the storm that struck the tree.
When storms strike, they might be creating space for change-change that can be found in the pages of a book. The bald cypress was 57.22’ tall, 33.80” in diameter, and an estimated 80 years old. It is believed that this bald cypress was one planted during the Bennett presidency (1928-1951) when Theta Pond was renovated in the 1940’s.
Duck Care
Ducks
Theta Pond is home to a wide range of wildlife. One of the most beloved species is the duck.
- The most common duck to see at the pond is the Mallard duck.
- Another species that can be very common is the Canadian goose. Although, not a duck, the Canadian goose lives in the same water, and can be just as impacted as the ducks. Beware of the geese as they can be aggressive.
- Our team has been trained to properly handle these wonderful inhabitants of the pond.
- These are wild animals, so unfortunately, things happen to them such as, mother abandoning babies, possible predators, and sickness/disease.
Health
In order limit our team's exposure to the ducks, a healthy ecosystem is very important.
- Trash and other foreign objects are discovered and removed from the pond.
- Trash and food scraps can create anaerobic and toxic conditions, causing fish to die, as well as promote algae and slime to grow.
- Our team does their best to keep the water clean, but we need your help by not introducing toxic objects.
Infographic
We understand that you may want to interact with the ducks and feed them, but that can be damaging if they are fed incorrectly.
- This infographic can be located at Theta pond. It explains what you can feed them.
- It is important not to feed them anything that can be toxic to them or damaging to the ecosystem.
- We thank you for your help in keeping the ducks safe!
