The connected lakes and ponds of the Pemaquid River system are enjoyed by many as places to boat, fish, swim, and take in the sights and sounds of nature. To help protect them from the introduction of invasive aquatic plants, Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust participates in the Courtesy Boat Inspection (CBI) program in collaboration with Maine Department of Environmental Protection and the Maine Lakes Environmental Association. 

Coastal Rivers is seeking volunteers to help with this effort. Trained Courtesy Boat Inspectors take shifts at public boat landings, acting as friendly ambassadors to a lake or pond. They offer information about invasive aquatic plants and, with the permission of boat owners, they also check boats and trailers for any signs of unwanted plants.  

Invasive aquatic plants are very successful at spreading from one fresh water body to another by “hitchhiking” on boats and trailers. Because these species are not native to the area, there are no native insects or animals that eat them, and they are able to reproduce quickly. Just a small piece of milfoil, for example, can grow and spread into thick mats that can eventually take over an entire lake or pond. Such infestations are damaging to wildlife, water quality, recreational activities, and shorefront property values.  

A volunteer training is scheduled for Thursday, June 27 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Pemaquid Pond boat landing. Registration is required at coastalrivers.org/events.  

Coastal Rivers’ volunteers, along with summer intern Forest Holbrook, will provide CBI services throughout the summer, on both weekdays and weekends, at the public launches on Pemaquid and Biscay ponds. After the training, volunteers will be able to register for two-hour time slots that suit their schedule, primarily on Fridays and weekends from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m..  

Coastal Rivers is a non-profit, member-supported, nationally accredited land trust caring for the lands and waters of the Damariscotta-Pemaquid Region by conserving land, protecting water quality, creating trails and public access, offering nature education programs, and confronting climate change. For more information, email info@coastalrivers.org or visit www.coastalrivers.org.