Have you visited Ice House Pond in the Town of Acton recently? Did you notice the large growing patch of green leaves surrounding the pond? Those are the notorious aquatic invaders known as Water Chestnut (Trapa natans) and each nut can produce 10-15 plants with each plant producing up to 20 seeds. This invasive species is spreading rapidly in Ice House Pond and threatening native species and recreational users.

The Water Chestnut nightmare has begun for Ice House Pond but it is not too late to defend from these invaders. Acton Conservation is partnering with OARS to coordinate a Water Chestnut pull on Saturday, July 20th, 2024 from 9 am – 12 pm. Help us fight back against this invasive species and take back Ice House Pond.

If you are interested in volunteering, we are looking for Ice House Pond defenders ages 14 and up. We will have some boats available for use as well as life vests generously provided by Paddle Boston! If you have your own kayak or canoe, you are encouraged to bring it. (And a life vest.)

We need help both in the water and on the land! If you are passionate about your local environment and want to make a difference, this opportunity is for you! If you are a high school student and interested in earning your community service hours through action-driven conservation this is for you.

Please, Sign Up Here.
 
Please bring the following:

• Water (Stay hydrated!)
• Bug Spray
• Sunblock
• Hat
• Work gloves
• Water shoes/old shoes

Old clothes (they will be permanently dirty)
 
All Volunteers will be required to fill out a waiver. This link provides access to the waiver: https://acton-ma.gov/forms.aspx?fid=93 . Waivers will also be available on site.
 
If you have any questions please email ibergemann@actonma.gov or call Acton Conservation: (978) 929-6634
 
Last September 2023, 42 hardworking volunteers removed nearly 16,400 Water Chestnuts! Without these volunteers countless wildlife and visitors would have been negatively impacted. We are calling on you to help us once again!