Volunteer: Weed Watchers Training Day - Squam Lakes Association

Description

Join the Squam Lakes Association on Sunday, July 13, from 10am – 2pm, and learn how to identify aquatic invasive species. The Weed Watchers volunteer program enables anyone to help protect our lakes against the spread of invasive species by becoming an extra pair of eyes on the lake to spot and report potential invasions. After this training, you will be able to look for invasive species like variable milfoil on your own and know how to report sightings on Squam as an official Weed Watcher!

We'll begin by meeting in the great room for a presentation, and then we'll kayak on Squam to practice. Volunteers should bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing, as we will be out on the water for a few hours. The SLA will provide kayaks, life vests and aquascopes. Trained Weed Watchers will also have the opportunity to take out free kayak and canoe rentals to survey around the lake. For more information, or to sign up for this volunteer program, visit the SLA website (squamlakes.org) or contact the SLA directly (603-968-7336).

Variable milfoil was first identified in Squam Lake in 2000. Our efforts hand-pulling and using a Diver Assisted Suction Harvester for removal have proven successful; there has not been a new infestation of variable milfoil identified on the Squam Lakes since 2007. Our Weed Watcher network is crucial for finding invasive blooms so we can stop the spread in its tracks.

The Squam Lakes Association is dedicated to conserving for public benefit the natural beauty, peaceful character and resources of the watershed. In collaboration with local and state partners the SLA promotes the protection, careful use and shared enjoyment of the lakes, mountains, forests, open spaces and wildlife of the Squam Lakes Region.