Paddle with a purpose — help us remove the invasive water chestnut from our waterways! Afterwards, join us for pizza at Forest City Brewing!

Water chestnut is a harmful aquatic, invasive species, which is known to take over stretches of water. When left unchecked, water chestnut has the potential to decimate ecosystems and eliminate recreational opportunities. Fortunately, it is easily identifiable and smaller infestations can be managed with trained volunteers hand-pulling the plant. The key to keeping water chestnut from invading new areas is to remove plants before they have a chance to set seeds.

This event is a collaboration between Middletown Pride, Connecticut River Conservancy and the Jonah Center for Earth and Art. We're looking for paddlers to help save the Floating Meadows (Mattabesset River) in Middletown from invasive water chestnut. This is a fun, satisfying activity — combining paddling, teamwork, enjoying beautiful scenery and wildlife. We launch from and return to the canoe and kayak launch near the Middletown transfer station.

Each paddler is required to register and consent to CRC’s liability waiver using the register button.

Bring your own canoe or kayak and lifejacket if you have one. If not, we have a limited number of Oru Inlet foldable kayaks, paddles and PFD's to borrow. Please note that the max paddler height for the Inlet boats is 6'2" and the max paddler weight is 200 lbs. Paddlers should also wear a hat, use sunscreen, and have water with them.

This event will be ASL interpreted.

After the pull event, join us for a pizza party sponsored by Middletown Pride at Forest City Brewing (180 Johnson Street) right by the boat launch.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please email kbeerman@ctriver.org or call 802-318-1390