Weed Watcher Program

Wednesday, July 24, 2024
4:00PM – 6:00PM

Are you concerned about the health of Mashpee-Wakeby Pond, Ashumet Pond, Mystic Lake, or another favorite local pond? If so, attend this Weed Watcher workshop offered by the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Lakes and Pond Program to learn how to best to monitor your backyard pond for harmful invasive plants. During this hands-on workshop focused on plant identification, you will learn how you can help prevent the spread of invasive weeds in Massachusetts waters.

A Proactive Approach: Learning How to Identify Invasive Plants!
A key goal of DCR’s Lakes and Ponds Program is to prevent further infestation of Massachusetts’ lakes and ponds by invasive plants and removing existing populations of invasive plants. To meet this goal the Lakes and Ponds Program has developed a training to teach local lake groups to monitor their ponds for the presence of invasive plants and to develop a removal plan if an infestation is found. Lakes and Ponds Program staff will bring live plant specimens to the training for a hands-on identification workshop. Those who register for the event will receive more information about how to bring potential nuisance plants from your ponds to identify at the workshop!  

What are the Harmful Effects of Invasive Aquatic Plants?
When invasive plants become established in a lake or pond, they are almost impossible to remove and very expensive to control. Invasive plants spread rapidly and form dense mats that can make boating, fishing, and swimming impossible. As the recreational and aesthetic value of the pond declines, property values around the lake also decrease. Invasive species also alter pond habitat and disrupt the ways aquatic ecosystems normally function. If a pioneer infestation of invasive plants is identified early, there is a greater chance that the plant can be eradicated before it becomes established in the lake or pond.  

By monitoring your lake or pond you are taking an active role in ensuring the protection of your lake for the future. 

Space is limited, please register by July 17, 2024

Co-Sponsors: Waquoit Bay Reserve, Falmouth Pond Coalition, Falmouth Water Stewards