Courtesy Saratoga PLAN
Saratoga PLAN recently led a community-wide effort to begin removal of an invasive outcropping of water chestnut plants on Fish Creek, the outlet of Saratoga Lake.
Over 36 volunteers participated.
Greg Redling, Saratoga PLAN stewardship coordinator, said, “It was great to get so much help protecting this beautiful resource, and everyone agreed we should do it again soon.”
Prior to the event, Capitol Mohawk Partner provided information about the invasive species, as well as a tutorial on the proper procedures for water chestnut removal. Kayak Shak generously provided boats for those in need.
“This creek is a real gem,” said Kayak Shak owner Beau Stallard. “We’re really excited that PLAN is teaming up with us to protect it.”
After launching from the Kayak Shak, the volunteers took a 20-minute paddle out to the site of the infestation. PLAN officials said hundreds of pounds of water chestnut biomass was removed. The Saratoga Rowing Club and Skidmore Rowing Club aided in the safe and legal disposal of the biomass, gathering it on the Saratoga Rowing Club docks before disposing of it in the Skidmore compost.
It was important to target the specific infestation of water chestnuts because of its early stage in maturation when it is easier to eradicate it, officials said. In many other local areas, the invasive species is so well established that management consists only of reduction, rather than total removal.
This is a major problem that is spreading throughout the Adirondacks. However, if water chestnut pulls occur a few times a year on the Fish Creek site over the next decade, the threat could be entirely mitigated, according to Saratoga PLAN.
“This was truly a community-wide effort with representation from individual volunteers, businesses, nonprofits, education institutions and club organizations” said a PLAN news release. “All participants can recognize the many values of Fish Creek and the importance of maintaining its character. By eliminating invasive species, we improve the quality of Fish Creek, which in turn, has impacts on native wildlife flourishment, property values and recreational opportunities.
“We look forward to participating in further efforts to continue preserving the beautiful landscape we depend on and enjoy.”
At the end of the pull, Mountainman Outdoor Supply Co. provided snacks for the volunteers.
Saratoga PLAN is a nonprofit land trust that works to preserve the rural character, natural habitats of Saratoga County so that these assets are accessible to all and survive for future generations. PLAN helps landowners conserve farmland, woodlands and natural habitats. PLAN connects people to nature through an extensive trail network, including 10 public nature preserves open for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and kayaking.
PLAN facilitates community-based conservation by partnering with municipalities to help them accomplish their community’s conservation goals.
For more information, call 518-587-5554, or visit www.saratogaplan.org.