Naumkeag Pumpkin Show Returns in October

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STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — For the sixth year, thousands of carved pumpkins and "gently spooky" attractions await visitors at a variety of Trustees of Reservations properties this fall including the Incredible Naumkeag Pumpkin Show.
 
The Incredible Naumkeag Pumpkin Show will be open Wednesdays through Sundays from Oct. 1-31.
 
Each show includes thousands of carved pumpkins, mums, light displays, and themed decorated areas all set among the grounds of the two historic properties. Both shows will have new elements this year, including interactive displays. The pumpkin shows are family-friendly events geared toward all ages.
 
New this year are two additional daytime timeslots on Saturdays and Sundays,12–2 p.m. and 2–4 p.m. at Naumkeag. The new daytime options let visitors enjoy the show at their own pace. Guests selecting the noon or 2 p.m. timeslots may stay for up to two hours. Plan to arrive within 15 minutes of the ticketed time. 
 
The daytime tickets cannot be extended into evening hours, which begin at 4 p.m.
 
Timed-entry tickets are required for each show. Tickets are not sold at the event venues and must be purchased in advance online at www.thetrustees.org/halloween.
 
For more information about Halloween events, including how to purchase tickets, visit www.thetrustees.org/halloween.
 
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Elevated Mercury Level Found in Center Pond Fish

BECKET, Mass. — The state Department of Public Health has issued an advisory after a mercury-contaminated fish was found in Center Pond. 
 
According to a letter sent to the local Board of Health from the Division of Environmental Toxicology, Hazard Assessment and Prevention, elevated levels of mercury were measured in the sample taken from the pond. 
 
The concentration in the fish exceeded DPH's action level of 0.5 milligrams per kilogram, or parts per million. 
 
"This indicates that daily consumption of fish from the waterbody may pose a health concern. Therefore, DPH has issued a FCA for Center Pond recommending that sensitive populations should not eat chain pickerel and all other people should limit consumption of chain pickerel to 2 meals/month," the letter states.
 
The letter specifically points to chain pickerel, but the 60-acre pond also has largemouth and smallmouth bass and yellow perch.
 
The "sensitive populations" include children younger than 12, those who are nursing, pregnant, or who may become pregnant.
 
The Toxicology Division recommends reducing intake of "large, predatory fish" or fish that feed on the bottoms of waterbodies, such as largemouth bass and carp. More information on safely eating fish can be found here
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