Lake Gemma Pond Approved for Hillsborough County’s Adopt-A-Pond Program
The Lake Gemma stormwater pond received final approval for Hillsborough County’s Adopt-A-Pond program on October 7, 2026. The approval gives our resident pond group a clear next step toward planning native plantings and caring for the pond with expert guidance.
The Lake Gemma stormwater pond received final approval for Hillsborough County’s Adopt-A-Pond program on October 7, 2026. The approval gives our resident pond group a clear next step toward planning native plantings and caring for the pond with expert guidance.
Residents who read the October newsletter may remember that final sign-off was still pending. That approval has now come through. Planting plans and a workday still need to be arranged, but the application stage is complete.
A community effort
Getting to this point took participation from homeowners around the pond. Residents provided the signatures needed for the application, and participating homeowners helped coordinate the neighborhood effort and follow-up questions.
Ryan Kearns, president of Carrollton Lakes HOA, submitted the application and coordinated with the resident pond group, county staff and the Board as the review progressed. Thank you to everyone who signed, helped gather information or took the time to stay involved.
What comes next
The county’s Adopt-A-Pond program offers expert guidance and native pond plants at no cost, with residents contributing hands-on planting and ongoing care. Its goals include improving water quality, supporting wildlife habitat and improving the appearance of participating stormwater ponds.
For the pond, the next step is a planting plan suited to the pond. Sarah Sacco, the county’s senior environmental specialist, expects to reconnect with our group around February 2027 to develop that plan and schedule a workday.
The current estimate for planting is March or April 2027. That timing is tentative; a specific date has not been set.
The resident pond group has already asked the county what preparation may be needed. Please wait for coordinated guidance before removing vegetation or beginning work around the pond. Understanding what should be done, and when, is part of the planning underway.
Getting involved
Homeowners interested in helping can contact the Board at hello@carrolltonlakeshoa.com. Watch our community updates for confirmed plans and volunteer details.
This milestone reflects neighbors taking an active role in the place they share. Thank you to the participating homeowners for helping move the project forward.