News, events, and updates you Otter know from OARS. | |
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OARS 3 RIVERS
A strong, effective, and sustainable organization
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CHECK OUT OUR FRESH NEW LOOK! | |
We’re excited to announce the launch of OARS’ new website! Our refreshed site, designed with you in mind, offers easy access to the latest updates, events, and resources about our river conservation efforts. Explore our new features, learn about our programs, and find out how you can get involved in protecting the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers. | |
HEALTY RIVERS
supporting wildife and our communities
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ENSURE THE DROUGHT BILL SUCCEEDS! | | |
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ENSURE THE DROUGHT BILL SUCCEEDS!
Thanks to your incredible advocacy, the Drought Bill passed the Senate in June as part of a larger Climate and Energy Bill. However, it was not included in the house version.
We Need Your Support Now!
The two branches must reconcile their versions before the legislative session ends on July 31.
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Studying Dissolved Oxygen in the Talbot Impundement
Discover the findings from our two-year dissolved oxygen research at Talbot Mills Impoundment! Our data logger recorded oxygen levels in the Concord River, revealing contrasting dynamics between the dry summer of 2022 and the wet summer of 2023. Dive into our report to understand how these environmental changes impact aquatic life.
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A Geological Journey
Dive into the fascinating geological history of the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers, tracing their journey from Westborough to Newburyport. Explore how ancient glacial activity and tectonic movements shaped these waterways and uncover the significance of landmarks like Egg Rock. Discover how the present landscape influences river discharge and learn how observing these rivers can reveal their rich geological past.
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CARING COMMUNITY
that appreciates and protects our rivers through OARS
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OARS ADOPT-A-LAUNCH PROGRAM A SUCCESS FOR 2024! | |
This spring, OARS called for volunteers to participate in a new Adopt-a-Launch program to ensure that canoe and kayak launches in our watershed remain clean and tidy for the paddling season. This is an entirely volunteer-run initiative administered by our Outreach Education Recreation and Stewardship committee. We received a strong response from our community, and through our volunteers’ hard work, we have accomplished our goal of keeping SuAsCo launches free of litter and enhancing the paddling experience for all. So far, OARS has recruited 23 volunteers covering 14 sites throughout our watershed. These volunteers have visited their sites weekly and have hauled out countless bags of trash. The Adopt-a-Launch program will continue through the end of October. At that time, OARS will begin recruiting volunteers for similar activities for the 2025 season, so please stay tuned. | |
Support the vital work to restore, protect, improve, and preserve the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers and their tributaries and watersheds through OARS. | |
Looking for ways to make a difference through OARS? Explore our featured volunteer opportunities below. | |
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Ecological Restoration
You can control Water Chestnut!
Invasive water chestnut is a fast-growing annual and, if left unattended, will easily cover an entire waterbody. YOU can prevent it from clogging our rivers—Become an Weed Warrior.
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Watershed Outreach
Become a River Rep and help connect your communities to the SuAsCo Watershed. You will assist us in tabling and coordinating community events. Training and materials are provided as needed.
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JOIN US FOR OUR FIRST-EVER OUTDOOR PADDLE GEAR EXCHANGE | |
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For All Things Paddle-Related
Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 14th (Rain date: Sunday, September 15th) from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Bradford Mill Back Parking Lot in Concord, MA. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or trade paddle-related items, this event is perfect for you. Enjoy family-friendly activities, delicious offerings from local food trucks, and the opportunity to connect with fellow paddle enthusiasts. Find new and used kayaks, canoes, SUPs, and gear to wrap up the summer season and prepare for the next.
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ICE HOUSE POND COMMUNITY WATER CHESTNUT PULL A HUGE SUCCESS | | |
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We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the community water chestnut pull at Ice House Landing on July 20. Your hard work and dedication have made a significant impact on the health of our rivers. Together, we removed about 17,000 Water Chestnuts from Ice House Pond, significantly improving the quality of our waterways.
Thank you to the Town of Acton for partnering with us again for this great event and to Paddle Boston for providing canoes, paddles, and PFDs to all who needed them.
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THANK YOU FOR MAKING OARS' 3 RIVER PADDLE UNFORGETTABLE! | | |
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On July 10th, we had an incredible time at our River Fest 3 rivers paddle event! Thank you to everyone who joined us for this scenic paddle along our three Wild & Scenic designated rivers. It was wonderful to see community members, families, partner organization members, and even furry friends enjoying our waterways’ beauty and historic landmarks, including the North Bridge, several old stone bridges from the 1800s, Dove Rock, Egg Rock, and more.
A special thanks to our partners at South Bridge Boathouse for providing rental services with a discount and to our dedicated OARS 3 Rivers staff and board members who made this event possible.
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THANK YOU FOR HELPING CLEAR THE CONCORD OF INVASIVE WATER CHESTNUT | | |
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Many thanks to everyone who came to Billerica on June 29 to help clear the Concord River. We removed 5,280 water chestnut rosettes and had great fun doing it together!
A special thank you to Lance Kelly for once again hosting the pull and providing invaluable support throughout the event and to Paddle Boston for providing canoes, paddles, and PFDs.
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SAVE-THE DATES for these popular OARS events | |
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Boats & Brews
August 23 | Medusa Brewery & Assabet River
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OARS' 3 Rivers Clean-up
Month of September
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Maynard Community Fest
Featuring OARS interactive info table | October 5
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More information on these events coming soon! | | | | |
