Indian Lake Watershed Association Update 8/14/2021
Nuisance Aquatic Plant Treatment Wednesday, August 18th
The City of Worcester Department of Public Works & Parks has contracted for a targeted application of the herbicide diquat dibromide (trade name: Reward) to the southern portions of Indian Lake for Wednesday, August 18, 2021. In order to reduce interference with the treatment, the boat ramp will be closed for the day and boat use is discouraged. Beaches, located on the north end of the lake, are in non-target treatment areas and will remain open and unaffected, but swimming outside of the designated swimming areas is discouraged.

Herbicide treatments are a safe and effective method to control the growth of the nuisance aquatic plant thin leafed pondweed. The application of herbicides is a common practice to reduce invasive weed density and poses no risk to humans and animals after application is complete. Application is coordinated with the Indian Lake Watershed Association and has been approved by the Worcester Conservation Commission.
Worcester City Council Votes for Emergency, Temporary Ban on Personal Watercraft at Indian Lake
On Tuesday, August 10th, the Worcester City Council approved an emergency temporary ban on personal watercraft (aka jetskis) on Indian Lake. The reason for this is due to the overwhelming number of operators that are either unaware of or are ignoring rules set forth by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in regards to operating a watercraft safely.

As a 'great pond', the oversight on the water lies primarily with the MA Environmental Police. Unfortunately, they are not able to provide adequate enforcement at this time. Worcester Police has a number of officers certified to enforce safe boating laws, but they are unable to dedicate the resources to provide the consistent enforcement needed on the lake at this time.

There are no doubt residents and visitors that use their watercraft in a respectful way. However, every year the number of folks that don't follow safe boating laws is growing. It is impacting residents and visitors. Many feel that that this is necessary to avert another tragedy.

The ban must still be approved by the director of the state Division of Law Enforcement and the ordinance must be published in the paper no less than 5 days before it will take effect.

The ban is currently set to expire in September 2022 but could be lifted sooner with a viable plan in place. This should open the door to a comprehensive discussion as to how to best move forward long term which hopefully will provide many opportunities for public involvement.
Worcester Angler Series Upcoming Event:
Discovering Waterbodies: Family Aquatic Science Day
Sunday, August 22nd, 2021
Coes Reservoir Beach
10:00 am
 
This interactive event, hosted by Tatnuck Brook Watershed Association, will introduce participants to water quality indicators, wildlife, and aquatic resources that can affect fish populations and the identify the health of a waterbody. Participants will get their hands dirty discovering the aquatic environment through various scientific sampling techniques. Take measurements with water quality meters, collect macroinvertebrates with a kick net, search for algae under a microscope, identify aquatic plants, and capture fish in large seine net! Professional and community scientists will be on hand to share their experience and expertise. Families and children of all ages welcome.
 
This event is free and open to the public, however, registration is required.
Send Us Your Fish Tales - extended through Labor Day!
The Indian Lake Watershed Association is hosting "Fish Tales: Stories of Fishing in the Heart of the Commonwealth" to showcase local anglers, their catches, and their experiences citywide. Now through September 6th, anglers will have the opportunity to upload their fishing photos and stories that relate to Worcester lakes and ponds. At a later date, photos will be displayed at a public exhibit to showcase the opportunities at Worcester's Blue Spaces!

While it is already exciting to have the stories and photos on public display, many fun categories will give participants the opportunity to win some great prizes too!

Get the upload link at: Upload your Fish Tale

Missed a virtual Worcester Angler Series event? Past events are now online at: www.wooanglerseries.com!
The Indian Lake Watershed Association is now accepting memberships and donations online!
Please click on the following link to submit your membership and/or donation: 
Worcester Police Department
Emergency 911
Non emergency 508-799-8606

Massachusetts Environmental Police Dispatch
Indian Lake Watershed Association, Inc PO Box 60244 Worcester, MA 01606
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