Swimmers and boaters in Connecticut’s Great Hill Pond have been grappling with a significant challenge in 2024 as invasive plants have heavily infested the waters. These dense clusters of vegetation have rendered swimming impractical and caused frequent clogs in boat engines. However, a beacon of hope has emerged as the town of Portland has secured a grant of nearly $24,000 from Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to combat the proliferation of curly-leaf pondweed and fanwort affecting the 76-acre lake.
Reflecting on previous struggles, the community recalled a time when residents tirelessly removed large masses of weeds, as swimming became impossible and boat propellers frequently jammed. The local group, Friends of Great Hill Pond, has expressed optimism, citing the effectiveness of initial efforts in addressing these invasive species. Although traces of the plants remain, and some seeds are still dormant in the substrate, the community views the progress as a successful first step in reclaiming their cherished pond.
The presence of invasive aquatic plants poses a significant threat as they displace native species essential for maintaining ecological balance. These invasions also hinder outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating, which are vital to local economies. The DEEP Commissioner emphasized the serious threat invasive species pose to Connecticut’s freshwater ecosystems and the state’s outdoor recreation economy, highlighting the financial burden and challenge of eradicating these species once they establish.
Connecticut is actively addressing the issue through a coordinated strategy. This year, DEEP allocated $400,000 across 12 different statewide projects. Among these initiatives, the Jonah Center for Earth and Art in Middletown received $75,000 to tackle the water chestnut infestation in the lower Mattabesset River. This effort involves community participation, with groups of 20 to 40 individuals frequently removing significant quantities of plants during organized work sessions. These collaborative efforts illustrate the power of community action in safeguarding waterways, restoring native habitats, and reopening outdoor spaces for public enjoyment.
The Bottom Line
The ongoing battle against invasive plants in Connecticut’s waterways underscores the importance of preserving local ecosystems and protecting recreational opportunities that contribute to the community’s well-being and economic health. Successfully addressing these environmental challenges requires concerted efforts from both governmental bodies and local communities, as demonstrated by the recent initiatives. Residents can find relief knowing that coordinated strategies and community engagement are paving the way for healthier waterways, which in turn support local economies reliant on outdoor activities.
The efforts to reclaim Connecticut’s aquatic environments will likely yield long-term benefits, enhancing water quality, promoting biodiversity, and ensuring access to cherished recreational activities. As communities continue to work together, the positive impacts on the environment and local quality of life will become increasingly apparent, reinforcing the value of proactive environmental stewardship.