DEM Seeking Volunteers To Pluck Water Chestnut In East Providence

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI —The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is seeking volunteers for paddling and plucking invasive water chestnut plants at Turner Reservoir in East Providence.

The water chestnut plant population at Turner Reservoir is sparse and intermingles with other native plants along the shore. These plants can form dense mats on lakes that block sunlight and deprive fish of oxygen. They also crowd out native plants that are necessary for local wildlife.

Volunteers must provide their own boats, life vests, and sign a waiver. Sessions will take place Fridays, June 25, July 2, and July 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., weather permitting.

For more information on how to identify and eradicate water chestnut plants, click here. Those who wish to volunteer can fill out a registration form here.