Invasive Plant Patrols
The new Invasive Plant Patrols (IPP) program began in 2020. Our collaboration with Laurie Callahan Founder and Coordinator at the York County Invasive Aquatic Species Project (YCIASP) is very successful. This effort began on Mousam Lake and six of our boat inspectors were trained to look for Invasive plants while in the water. This provides an additional way to protect Mousam Lake and generate additional training for our Courtesy Boat Inspectors (CBI's) to keep a sharper lookout for invasive plants when doing boat inspections.
In 2020 the CBI's did 4 patrols. A Level III* survey of the launch area, then the opposite cove and dam area from the launch. In addition, the beach area and surrounding area around the Acton Trading Post. Finally, the large cove at the foot of Mousam Lake adjacent to Rt 11 in coordination with members of MLRA and YCIASP. Dennis Roberge, Aquatic Plant Specialist from Mousam Lake Region Association accompanied the crew on a few of the patrols. These motivated youths are turning the heads of many folks throughout the state and other IPP organizations. The talent level has far exceeded what we expected!
*Level III survey is a classification the state and Lake Stewards of Maine uses to identify the scope of the patrol. Level III is coverage from 300 feet on each side of the launch and 300 feet out.