Bi-monthly e-news made for those with a passion for being active on a clear, invasive-free Charles River. Learn more at CRWA.org.
Permitting Complete for the Lower Basin!
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has obtained permits for the Charles River Aquatic Management Program from Boston, Cambridge, Watertown, and Newton to complete a 5-year aquatic invasives management plan. DCR will be continuing the permitting process for the Lakes District municipalities of Waltham and Weston this winter. With all permits in hand, we can work on clearing the Charles with a system-wide approach.
Herbicide Treatment to Begin in 2022.
DCR expects to begin a low-dose, whole-river herbicide treatment in mid-July 2022. The herbicide of choice is fluridone (trade name Sonar), which is especially effective at treating watermilfoil and fanwort. As a systemic herbicide, the target plants absorb the chemical, which causes the vegetation to disintegrate as it grows. Fluoridone will be applied from the Lakes District upstream to the Lower Basin downstream over the course of a few days. After the whole-river treatment, Sonar booster applications may be used as necessary in August 2022.

Have more questions about this effort? Contact Lisa Kumpf, River Science Program Manager, at [email protected].
CRWA and DCR Partner in Matching Fund Program
CRWA is working toward raising money for this aquatic invasive removal work through DCR’s Partnership Matching Fund Program!

Our goal is to raise $50,000 per year through the 5-year management program. Each year, $25,000 will become $75,000 through the matching program to support DCR’s efforts. The other $25,000 will go to CRWA to manage the grant, coordinate between DCR and communities, and provide public education and outreach.

With your support, we can clear the current of invasive aquatic plants and restore a balanced river ecosystem. Donate now to the aquatic invasives removal work!
Bittersweet Removal Season is in Full Swing!
While water chestnut pulling season has ended, we have shifted our focus to land-based invasives. CRWA is working with volunteer groups to target invasive bittersweet vines that can quickly overtake full-grown trees when left unchecked.

Trees are critical for water quality, as their roots trap and naturally remove pollution from stormwater runoff, and return clean water to the ground and nearby lakes and ponds. Removing these vines protects the trees, which in turn protects the Charles River.

On Saturday, September 11, CRWA hosted a community bittersweet removal event where 20 volunteers cleared vines from trees near Louisa Lake in Milford! We look forward to continuing working with volunteers this fall and next spring to remove these harmful plants.
Thank You.
Thank you to our 2021 Sponsors for your support of our Invasive Species Programming!
Champions of the Charles Gala
Please join us at our annual Champions of the Charles Gala on Thursday, October 14, 6-9 PM, where we will honor U.S. Senator Ed Markey. This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and supports our vital work to restore and protect the Charles River.

The health and safety of our members and guests is our top priority so we will be hosting our event outdoors on the beautiful Riverview Terrace of the Royal Sonesta, where we will watch the sunset over the Charles, enjoying an open bar with passed hors-d'oeuvres and exquisite food stations.

Details and tickets here. 
Charles River Watershed Association | www.crwa.org
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