Water Chestnut Infestations
Interactive Map
Water chestnut is an invasive plant that has the potential to spread and get out of control. It is wreaking havoc on native plants and animals and interfering with recreation on our rivers.
This map shows all reported water chestnut (aka Trapa natans) infestations within the Connecticut River Watershed. This map is continuously updated as stewards, monitors and the other river users report new infestations and report on the status of existing ones. Water chestnut infestations have been reported in all four states within the watershed – NH, VT, MA & CT.
How to use the Map:
Water Chestnut At A Glance
The water chestnut is a rooted, floating aquatic plant. It is an annual plant not native to the United States, categorized as an invasive species in the Connecticut River Watershed. It is fast growing and quickly reproducing. If left unattended it will easily cover an entire waterbody.
Water chestnut infestations have been found in each of the four states – CT, MA, NH, VT, that the CT River travels through. To learn more about the origins of water chestnut and removal efforts in the CT River, visit our What is Water Chestnut page!
Volunteer Opportunities
Good news! Water chestnut is easy to identify and can be managed by trained volunteers. Together, we can do something about it! Plus, it’s a great opportunity to get on the water and have some fun…all for a good cause.
Attend a Pull or Organize Your Own
Pulling events typically occur from June through August. Events are part of a multi-organizational collaboration united in the goal of removing this invasive plant from all parts of the Connecticut River basin. Use the calendar to find a pulling event near you or search by organization!
If you choose to attend an organized pull we will provide supplies and instruction on how to pull the plants. It’s easy to do, but technique is important. You are welcome to bring your own boat, rent a boat, or contact us for other options. While this is generally a paddle event, shallow motor boats are helpful to shuttle loads of plants back to land.
Water Chestnut Events
Thanks for your interest in water chestnut pulls. To view 2023 water chestnut pull events, please click on the button below which will take you to our activities calendar and registration pages.
Contact us at volunteer@ctriver.org or 413.772.2020 207 for questions.
Recognizing Partners
Water chestnut removal in the CT River Watershed has long been a priority for organizations, groups and individuals across all four states. The launch of a new water chestnut website and reporting system in 2020 builds on the work that these groups have completed for decades and seeks to grow and develop the collaborative effort started many years ago!
THANK YOU
