Messerschmidt Pond Wildlife Management AreaTown: Westbrook near Deep River borderDirections from I-95: For boat launch, take Exit 64 off I-95 in both directions. Head north on Route 145 at end of exit ramp. Boat launch area will be on the right after 3 miles.Where to Park: At boat launch, designated gravel parking area that accommodates up to 10 cars. At wildlife management area, designated parking lot.Description: 73 acres of fresh water surrounded by mixed hardwood forest; features car-top, carry-in boat launch for fishing, kayaking or leisurely paddling.Regulations: State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection boating regulations apply. No swimming, water-skiing or gas motors. Use of electric motors permitted.Amenities: NoneNatural Features: Numerous coves and wooded islands make for fun exploration by small boat. Nearly two dozen plant species identified in DEEP's last survey in 2005.Fees: NoneThings to note: Fishermen will encounter large-mouth bass, pickerel, sunfish and perch.Owner: State of ConnecticutLinks/More Information: http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?A=2686&Q=384108

For wildlife management area trails, take Route 9 to Exit 5; head west about three miles on Route 80; just past the Winthrop Cemetery on right, take a left at the traffic light onto to Westbrook Road. Follow Westbrook road about 2 miles to Messerschmidt Wildlife Management Area parking lot (dam will be on the right).

According to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the pond is an artificial impoundment of the Falls River, fed by several small streams with a maximum depth of 16 feet near a dam at the eastern end.

The area includes the millpond and the former site of the Deep River Manufacturing Company, which preserved a variety of historic manufacturing machinery until its demolition in 1987.

Short hiking trails at Messerschmidt Wildlife Management Area take hikers past a sunny brook and equal parts sunny and shady forest.