A viral attraction in Brooklyn, known as the hydrant-puddle fish pond, was recently vandalized, leaving residents and activists searching for answers. The vandals destroyed decorations and killed about five fish in the pond, which had quickly gained interested visitors and drawn criticism from online activists and a veterinarian who deemed it as animal cruelty. Despite the vandalism, the pond’s creators are determined to expand and improve the pond, raising funds to install a filtration system to ensure the survival of the fish throughout winter.
The pond, located at Tompkins Avenue and Hancock Street, was created in a sidewalk tree pit filled with water from a leaky hydrant. One resident living nearby, Devang Shah, is working to turn the pond into a landmark and has been involved in efforts to expand and enhance the project. However, critics argue that the conditions of the pond are unsuitable for the fish, with a veterinarian stating that they have virtually no chance of surviving the winter in such shallow water. The vandalism was seen as a tragic but expected result of maintaining the fish in inadequate conditions.
Neighborhood residents who rescued about 30 fish from the pond earlier this month expressed disappointment at the vandalism, condemning the destructive act as disrespectful to the fish and the community. Despite the setback, the co-creator of the pond remains determined to continue with the project, gathering volunteers to clean up and rebuild the site. The pond creators are not backing down, having plans for a school supplies giveaway and a goldfish adoption event. They also hope to install plexiglass and solar panels for a more permanent structure in the future.
Several residents of the neighborhood are divided on the existence of the pond, with some advocating for relocation of the fish to more appropriate living conditions and others supporting the project as a form of magic and creativity in the city. The vandalism, although destructive, has spurred community members to come together and rebuild the pond, demonstrating resilience and determination to maintain the unique attraction. Despite the challenges faced by the pond, such as inappropriate living conditions for the fish and concerns raised by veterinarians, the creators remain committed to improving and expanding the project, aiming to make it a lasting landmark in the neighborhood.
