The water chestnut infestation is a symptom of high levels of phosphorus in the river. Growth can be eliminated through harvesting to reduce seed deposits and by preventing excess nutrients especially phosphorus from entering waterways. CRWA has developed several projects to help monitor and address water chestnut growth and nutrient overloading in the Charles River:
Water Chestnut Harvesting - In the Lakes District, the water chestnut issue is being addressed through awareness-building advocacy campaigns as well as through two different removal methods: mechanical harvesting and hand-pulling. Mechanical harvesters, partially funded through state grants, remove vast areas of plant coverage in deep water. The machines are unable to access weeds growing in shallow water, so hand pulling efforts are an essential aspect of CRWA's removal efforts. Through the Canoeing for Clean Water program, volunteers canoe through the Lakes District and remove water chestnuts by hand. CRWA hosts public and private volunteer group events throughout the summer months.
Water Quality Monitoring - CRWA manages a team of over 80 volunteers, or "citizen scientists, who monitor multiple sites along the Charles River and collect water samples, measure depth and temperature, and record river conditions. This data is used to identify problems in the river and trends in water quality, and to track the progress of efforts to clean up the Charles.
Blue Cities Initiative - CRWA designs and advocates for green infrastructure systems, like rain gardens and permeable pavement, to treat stormwater runoff naturally before it enters the Charles - all while enhancing neighborhoods and connecting existing open spaces.
Environmental Advocacy - Through reforming state water law, policy and practice, CRWA works to protect aquifers and maintain streamflow.
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