Help control the spread of Water Chestnut at Mill Pond - Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge - August 4th

Come join us on Wednesday August 4th to pull Water Chestnut out of Mill Pond!

Water chestnut was detected two summers ago. In order to prevent Water Chestnut from spreading, we need help pulling the plants before they drop their spiky seeds and spread more widely. Volunteers will use canoes to pull up the plants. Volunteers are also needed at the launch site to load the water chestnut into the dump truck.  Be prepared to get muddy, wet and have fun!!!!!

Project: Hand Pulling Water Chestnut

Dates: Wednesday, August 4th

Time: 9:00am

Location: Mill Pond - Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge (Intersection of W Main St & Lake Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771). Parking is available on the street.

Directions: From 495, exit 41N/Oyster Bay (RT 107). Turn right on Jericho E Norwich Rd (RT 106). Follow RT 106 (changes its name to Oyster Bay Rd/Pine Hollow Rd). Make a left on Lexington Ave. Left on W. Main St. Mill Pond is on your left. Meet at the launch site off of Lake Ave.

Provided: Canoes, life vest/jackets (limited), baskets(limited), lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Bring: If you have your own life vest/jacket/basket, please bring it! Volunteers should wear shoes and clothing that can get wet and dirty (shorts recommended), sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent.

Registration: Please register at least 2 days prior to the event to get a head count of volunteer help. We want to make sure we have enough canoes, food, etc!

Background: Water chestnut can form dense, floating mats and choke the waterbody in shallow sections and along the shoreline severely limiting light (a critical element of aquatic ecosystems) and reducing oxygen levels in the water. It competes with native vegetation and is of little value to wildlife. It also limits boating, fishing, swimming and other recreational activities.

For more information and to register, contact: Susi Ponce at azucena_ponce@fws.gov or 631.286.0485 x153 or email Stella Miller at trickiwoo63@yahoo.com